Finances can create a lot of pressure. If you need it, there’s pressure. If you have lots of it, there’s pressure. However, there’s a secret that we need to know about living with little or lots of money. Paul said: “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want” (Phil. 4:12).
A couple of weeks ago I taught about this very principle in my sermon entitled Winning the Financial War. You can access a video version of it by going to Vimeo.com/channels/ChristChurchUSA. Not every Christ follower understands how to experience varying levels of freedom, victory, deliverance, or wisdom from the Lord.
Paul gives us insight by using the word "Secret", which he took from the mystery religions of his day. It actually means “I’ve been initiated.” In other words: learning the secret of how to be content in any and every financial situation is a matter of initiation. Your current circumstance is part of the initiation rite that God has set aside for you. If you are able to secure contentment through the use of your faith, well done! You’ve passed the test. Enter into the contentment zone. If not, you will have to keep plugging away until you learn the secret.
One way to experience contentment is to be missional in your actions. Living purposefully keeps you financially focused. Your financial decisions must revolve around your ultimate mission in life.
If you chose to live missionally, what changes would you have to make financially? Would your habits be different? Would you experience any financial savings? Share your answer with us.
I love this new word added to my vocabulary missional (snile). When I am focused missionally I think more global. I reduce and cut out unneccessary spending. This allows me to sow into others lives. I am more concerned about the needs of others. Thank God I am getting the secret and becoming more content.
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