The Upper Room Daily Devotional "Ash Wednesday" Wednesday, March 5th, 2014 - Read Philippians 4:10-13

The Upper Room Daily Devotional "Ash Wednesday" Wednesday, March 5th, 2014 - Read Philippians 4:10 But I rejoice in the Lord greatly, that now at length you have revived your thought for me; in which you did indeed take thought, but you lacked opportunity. 11 Not that I speak in respect to lack, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content in it. 12 I know how to be humbled, and I know also how to abound. In everything and in all things I have learned the secret both to be filled and to be hungry, both to abound and to be in need. 13 I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.
Paul wrote, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.”--Philippians 4:11 (NIV)
As I drive to a friend’s house, I notice a new sporting goods store. I think about the great sales they must be having for their grand opening and all of the fun things I could buy for camping. Then I turn my thoughts to the next day: Ash Wednesday. This holy day marks a time when I try to think about moderation. Living in moderation is a daily challenge for me. From grocery shopping, to eating, to going to new stores, it is difficult to eat and purchase only what is necessary without splurging on a little more here and there. As I approach the store, my thoughts shift to the apostle Paul, who learned to be content in all circumstances. He was satisfied whether he was feasting or starving, whether he had many possessions or none. Having an excess of goods or of food clutters my life—body, soul, and mind—without providing any lasting, deep-rooted happiness. Th ey require time and energy to maintain, which distracts me from nurturing my relationship with God. I turn my eyes back to the road and pass the new store. Today I will make an effort to live more freely, with less stuff to hold me down and distract me from God.--The Author: Heather Harshman (California, USA)
Thought for the Day: Living in moderation frees up space in our hearts for God.
Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, keep our thoughts centered on you by removing distractions from our lives. May we give attention and energy to your work today. Amen.
Prayer focus: To be content with less
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