to be content

So while talking to one of my friends tonight, I mentioned that rich people lead a different life. He quickly responded with "Yeah and it's one I wouldn't want to live." The more I thought about it, the more I totally agreed with it. Having money isn't bad, but there are so many things you gain when you don't have money. Coming from a big family, if I ever wanted something, I had to earn the money for it. I pay for my education, I paid for my car, I buy my clothes, and whatever else I want. It's not always easy, but I appreciate these things so much because I worked hard for them. They have more value to me because of that. Take my car for instance: it's a little red Pontiac, nothing fancy, but I wouldn't trade it for a Lamborghini. Honestly. I love my little red car. There is so much to be gained from hard work! And I think this generation has forgotten that. Compared to some, my life seems like a rich life. We all have our struggles, someone will always have more than we have, but I'm genuinely happy. I want to be like Paul when he said,
"for I have learned in whatever state I am to be content." -Philippians 4:11-
Can you imagine? Paul doesn't just say "whenever there are good times I am content." No. It's in WHATEVER STATE. Rich, poor, full, hungry, happy, lonely. Paul is able to be content with life. Why? Because he knows there is more to life than things, and that is the Savior, Jesus Christ. He is all I need, even though I often forget that concept. With Christ, there is want for nothing. Does this mean I get everything I want? Of course not. Because not everything is helpful to me, and I learn and grow from the hard times. God planted me here, in my life, because He wanted me here, and for that I am content. I have been greatly blessed with what I have, and I'm grateful that the Lord has placed me right here.