I came across this while reading Lloyd-Jones' book On Spiritual Depression. It fits squarely with knowing the better and abiding possession that is Jesus Christ. In Philippians 4:10 Paul wrote, "Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content." Lloyd-Jones gives some practical steps to arrive at this blessed condition.
Know these things:
1. Conditions are always changing, therefore I must obviously not be dependent upon conditions.
2. What matters supremely and vitally is my soul and my relationship to God--that is the first thing.
3. God is concerned about me as my Father, and nothing happens to me apart from God. Even the very hairs of my head are all numbered. I must never forget that.
4. God's will and God's ways are a great mystery, but I know that whatever He wills or permits is of necessity for my good.
5. Every situation in life is the unfolding of some manifestation of God's love and goodness. Therefore my business is to look for this peculiar manifestation of God's goodness and kindness and to be prepared for surprises and blessings because 'His ways are not my ways, neither His thoughts my thoughts.'
6. I must regard circumstances and conditions, not in and of themselves therefore, but as a part of God's dealings with me in the work of perfecting my soul and bringing me to final perfection.
7. Whatever my conditions may be at this present moment they are only temporary, they are only passing, and they can never rob me of the joy and the glory that ultimately await me with Christ.
Put this book on your Christmas list and if you don't get it be content for the moment then go out and buy it. Why not go ahead and get it now?
http://www.amazon.com/Spiritual-Depression-Its-Causes-Cure/dp/0802813879/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1195140324&sr=8-1
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