Our call to contentedness means we genuinely share in each other's joy without looking at ourselves and our wants or needs.  In Christ, we have all that we need, even if all else were to be withheld or taken away, and when we get to a place where we are unable and unwilling to rejoice with others' successes, gifts, or joys, that we also desire, we are ultimately saying that God is not enough.  We are also called to have compassion for others and avoid the dangers of losing patience or being resentful insofar as we do not cross the line of indulging sinful behavior.  The implications of our attitudes toward contentedness and compassion say much about where we are in our walk with Christ, and we must soberly and honestly reflect on where we may fall short.  

 

Scripture: Job 2, Romans 12:15

Our attitude and actions as believers should and will look different than the world or those who merely profess to believe in Christ. We rejoice always and in all circumstances, because we know the sure and steady hope that awaits us in Christ. We are constantly praying, not simply to get us out of a situation or for something we want, but to give thanks, praise, and intercession, all according to His will. Our attitude ought to be one of sharing, generosity, and hospitality. To unbelievers, all of these characteristics are arbitrary. To those who merely profess to know Christ, these demands are too much, but for true believers, these are our expectations because he transforms us and is accomplished not as we try harder on our own but as we yield to Jesus Christ, who is our model.  

 

Scripture: Psalm 13, Romans 12:9-13

The characteristics of Christians set them apart from unbelievers and show they belong to the Lord.  They are essential to the faith, not to show that we're Christian, but because we're Christian.  We ought to have genuine love, hate for what is evil, love for what is good, show honor to one another as believers, and be zealous for things of God.  The example has been laid out for us in Christ, and we are to walk in a manner worthy of our calling.  

 

Scripture: Ezekiel 33:1-9, Romans 12:9-13

In his letter to the Philippians, Paul sets the tone of chapter 3 by reminding believers to rejoice in the Lord always.  With that in mind, he cautions to beware of false teachers, or reliance on yourself and your works.  Moving forward in faith may cost you, and we need to be willing to suffer loss for the sake of Christ.  We are to follow Christ's example, not return evil for evil, be reminded of the joy of knowing Christ, and keep our eye on the prize of an eternity spent in the presence of God, living this life each day.  

 

Scripture: Philippians 3:1-21