"What Did I Do Wrong?"

I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, 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 everything through him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:10-13 NIV).

The context of today’s reading is in an expression of gratitude from the Apostle Paul. The church in Philippi had responded to his need by sending him much needed support. As he begins to thank them he also shares with them a key principle of the contented life.

Let me go back a few days though. Saturday was the first soccer game for my grandchildren, Faith and Logan. I am their assistant coach along with Kyle, who is the head coach. It is a great privilege to be able to participate in their lives through this channel of activity. We have had a couple of practices and naturally wondered how we would do in a competitive situation. Of course, they do not keep score at this age level, but still we wanted our team to do their best and compete well. The game was pretty evenly matched at first with the score being 2-2. Then things broke open for the other team and they scored two very quick goals. Logan being very competitive exhibited some “frustration.” Kyle pulled him out of the game immediately to talk with him. Though the right thing to do, it certainly didn’t help Logan feel any better! He was pouting a bit and sitting on the ice chest when I went to sit next to him. He looked at me and I said, “It will be OK.” His response was very telling. He said with a sob, “I just don’t know what I’m doing wrong.”

Here’s the principle. Logan had done nothing wrong in his play, in fact, it was outstanding. It was his attitude that caused him to lose his contentment. So it is with us in our lives. Paul is thankful for the Philippians gifts and concern, but he had experienced both having a lot and having a little; being hungry and well fed. He had known every circumstance, both bad and good. Yet, in both he had found the secret to contentment. It’s not what we are “doing” that makes the difference. Sometimes we can do everything just right and still come short. The key is in what God does with us that makes the difference.

I had a few more words of encouragement with Logan and the “Grandpa magic” seemed to work. He was ready to go back in at the next substitution and played goal keeper for the first time incredibly. He stopped everything! The next time you don’t understand why some things don’t go right, please sit down for a moment with your Heavenly Father and listen to him! The real secret of contentment is in the power of our Father!