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satisfied, not satisfied

I was listening recently to a sermon by Dick Lucas and was struck by the contrast in these two statements by the Apostle Paul in his letter to the Philippians.  Paul is not definitely not self-satisfied as to his spiritual progress (3:12-13), and yet he is definitely content with his physical circumstances (4:11-12)...  

Philippians 3:12-14 "Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own.  Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."

Philippians 4:11-12  "Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.  I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need."

Lucas made a statement, which he said was an old saying… "The man of the world is satisfied with his spiritual condition, but not content with his material condition.  The man of God is not satisfied with his spiritual progress, but he is content with his material condition. "

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doug said…
Thank you for this reminder- I am often dissatisfied with both and my dissatisfaction with my spiritual growth if often for the wrong reasons. I am in constant need of rebuke and accountability. Both of these are in short supply which would make a carnal man pleased but for one who desires to grow in Christ, it is deadening. Anyhow, this helps. Dick Lucas is one of my favorite preachers to listen to. Together with David Jackman, Ian Hamilton, Peter Jensen, and all the Scotts that I love so much, I have come to realize that I listen to very few, if any, Americans. Must be something in the accents.
April 25, 2013 at 2:16 PM
Pilgrim said…
Too soon old and too late smart. That is me for sure, Thanks
April 25, 2013 at 6:32 PM
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