Contentment under worst circumstances

Scripture: "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." (Philippians 4:12)

I know I've done blogs before on being content in any circumstance, but I was sent a most AMAZING video titled "Get Back Up" last week that I am compelled to share with you.

His name is Nick Vujicic and I wish I had done more research on him before I wrote this blog to find out his whole story, but he is a man born without limbs, and yet he is the most incredible motivational speaker, using his own life, body and experiences as examples of being content when things aren't exactly all you would like or expect. He is a Christian man, and when you watch this video, you will understand what I mean when I say, "He must be the most hugged man in the world".

He has no limbs, and yet he can play music, surf, play ball!! SURF!! My jaw dropped at the sight!! Imagine the trust he must have in his close friends to snatch him up out of the water in time!!

I know people think Christians are NUTS to be content, happy, even comedic in situations that are so adverse - but we all have a choice to make in life: we can either rail against what we cannot change - or we can embrace what we have - and be thankful, for things could be much, much worse.

I'm not saying we all must walk around with a plastic smile on our faces because it's "the Christian thing to do." Absolutely not. I've moaned, groaned, cried, whined and complained endlessly about situations out of my control that made me incredibly unhappy. And boy did God get an earful!! But in the end - I wiped my tears, stood up straight, accepted what was, grew thankful for what was IN my control - and moved on. And I more often than not find my contentment once again in almost all situations. Why? Because ultimately I know GOD is in control. And He knows what's best for me.

Sometimes contentment is a process. I'm sure NickVujicic has had some seriously bad days, months, maybe even years. Life could not have been easy, and certainly, he wasn't always so happy. He eludes to that himself.

Look at him now. Amazing. An at times humorous, motivational speaker, who travels to schools to talk to children, making an impact in their young lives in such a positive way. Wow!

If you have a few minutes of down time - play this video, and keep a tissue nearby. On the right side of the page are more videos I just now discovered, so I haven't watched them yet. But his message in the following link is powerful and touching.

Be content with what you have. Be thankful for all God HAS given you, and don't focus so much on what He hasn't - He works in His own time. And sometimes - we don't get what we want for good reason - often reasons we are unaware of. God knows our future - he's our protector, too.

Here is the link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MslbhDZoniY

Prayer request: For those facing circumstances out of their control, who need to find contentment once again. Ask that they can find solace in Jesus Christ and his boundless mercy.

Prayer: Father, we thank You for giving us strength to overcome obstacles in our way, and we thank You for helping us to grow through each challenging experience. We ask that you touch those who need to feel Your presence in their situation. Give them peace and strength only You can provide. Amen.