“Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.” Philippians 4:11

We have a daily choice to either complain or be content. Though this whirlwind of a year has given us many reasons to gripe and grumble, I have found that there are even more reasons to be grateful.

1. Provision

“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.”-1 Timothy 6:6-8

God tells us that if we have clothes and food we should be content.  I honestly do not remember a day this year that I was unable to eat food or was struggling to find clothes to wear. What a tremendous blessing that is! Beyond this, God has given me a home to live in, family to live with, and a reason to live on.

2. Promises

“Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” Hebrews 13:5

The reason I can live on is that God promises never to leave us nor forsake us. God has been with us all the way and will be with us till the day we die.

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16

Jesus was willing to die on the cross for the sins of the world. He not only promises us eternal life, but also a home in heaven with Him!  In that place, there are no more tears, no more night, no more pain, no more sin, and no more suffering.

“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.” John 14:1-3

3. Peace

“And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.” Mark 4:39

The Christian has no need to fear, for God promises us peace. I’m reminded of the disciples in the boat when the storm was raging. Yet, there was One in the ship Who was sleeping in peace. His name is Jesus, and I’m thankful that this same Saviour has the power to calm the turbulent storms of our lives and grant us peace.

4. Prayer

“Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.” Jeremiah 33:3

Aren’t you glad that God has given us the opportunity to pray? It is not as if He closed His listening ears to our prayers this year. In fact, I believe He just loves that we are actually talking to Him more these days. We have a direct line to God, the Creator of the universe, the King of kings, the Lord of lords. He is our Master, Abba, and Friend. He is everything we need. He is the Great I AM.

If you spent most of this year murmuring and complaining, you still have the rest of the year to get the gratitude attitude. Let’s take a moment to pray to God and say,“Thank You Lord, for 2020. What a remarkable year it has been! Thank you for Your daily provision, Your everlasting promises, Your sweet peace, and answered prayers.”

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Charlene Ilan, GSBC Professor

Miss Charlene Ilan and her family have been faithful members of NVBC for over a decade. She is an alumna of North Valley Baptist Schools and Golden State Baptist College and now teaches at GSBC in the English and Music Departments.