The Lessons of Pain and Contentment

As we start a new year, full of possibilities, full of promise, and full of opportunities to grow, change and become all that we are meant to become on this earth, I stand at this new doorway and ponder what will be???

How about you?  How was your 2015?  Did you have a marvelous year or was it spattered with challenges as mine was?  I have never categorized an entire  year as "bad" but if I had, 2015 would be in the running.  One challenge after another seem to appear on the horizon and yet with each new query, I found a lesson of love along with the lesson of pain.  

We all have challenges in this life and in this world.  Some are monumental, others may just be annoying....LOL  

So, in the midst of those challenges, where do you find your strength?  How does one possibly come to a point of contentment despite these delays, disappointments, setbacks, etc.?  I believe it comes from a place deep within us.  And, I believe that it comes from God.  Trust. Thankfulness.  And, from a very human standpoint, learning to accept and simply acknowledgment that life is difficult.  (But, once a person realizes that, it doesn't seem so bad!!!)  Everyone comes across things that way heavy on their soul, their mind, their pocketbook.   Everyone.  Not one of us is spared despite outward appearances.

Some people hide the challenges better than others and some wear them on their sleeves, so to speak.

Some people don't have a clue how to overcome the obstacles that clog up their path.

Some people rely on God for everything.  No matter what.  They trust that things are going to work out for the best.  They believe their needs will be taken care of...not all of their wants, but their true needs.

One scripture that points us in the right direction comes from Paul writing from a dark, cold prison in Philippi.  

Philippians 4:11-13 says:

"For I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.  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.  I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

If you were in prison centuries ago, would you be able to say this?  Feel this?  Acknowledge this?  

I am not sure I would be able to do so.  I must admit, we are pretty spoiled here in the USA.  Most of us have all that we need.  Food, shelter, family, friends, a bank account, etc.  Yet, we mistake our wants from our needs and get to complaining that we don't have enough.  Or, it's not the right stuff.

Contentment or pain.  Which brings a person more lessons?  Or, can both???  It is definitely something to contemplate as we embark on a new year!!!  May your days be filled with joy and contentment in 2016.  The kind that truly lasts!!!