“Want to know a secret?”

Why is this question so appealing? Why are we so intrigued by secrets? Tabloids sometimes claim to have the secret to prevent aging, cure cancer or effortlessly lose weight.

The apostle Paul wrote that he had a secret. Whether he was in need or had plenty, well fed or hungry, he claimed to have learned the secret of being content.

Being content, satisfied, lacking nothing, almost sounds too good to be true.

With all the technology and advancements science has made, we should be the most content people to have ever lived.

Let’s just consider the smart phone. In the palm of our hand, we have access to more information and entertainment than ever before.

But are we content, or do we constantly strive for more?

Being content doesn’t mean that we’re willing to settle, become complacent or against progress. It means that we have peace within about where we are in life.

In ancient times, cities would be vulnerable to attack if they relied on resources outside of their walls for survival.

All an enemy had to do was block the supply routes, and eventually the people in the city would starve. A city with food and water within their walls was a contented city.

Paul wrote that he did not rely on resources outside of himself. Having everything didn’t enhance him; losing everything didn’t diminish him. Paul had learned the secret of being content.

In Philippians 4:13 he wrote, “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

Paul relied on Christ within him to infuse strength regardless of circumstances. Paul was content. Are you?

Ronny Michel may be reached at rmichel@rtconline.com.