If we find our experiences in life very checkered, we may conclude that the Lord sees that we need both the heights and depths of prosperity and adversity to properly instruct us and qualify us for the position He designs for us in the future. Let us, then, as the Apostle did, learn how to abound, not allowing the abundance of earthly good things to swerve us from our consecration vows; and let us learn also how to be in want (need) and yet not to want anything beyond what the Lord's wisdom and providence see best to give—to be content.
To be contented under all circumstances is a glorious achievement, and is an ideal toward which the Lord's people should constantly strive. Few indeed are they, who can suffer abasement contentedly, still fewer are they who can receive success contentedly. It is only through many experiences of abasement and exaltation that we learn to receive all things contentedly.
Psa. 37:7; Prov. 16:8; 17:1, 22; 30:8; Eccles. 4:6; 5:12; Luke 3:14; 1 Cor. 7:20, 24; 2 Cor. 6:9, 10; 1 Tim. 6:6-12; Heb. 13:5, 6; Psa. 16:6; 37:7, 16; Prov. 14:14; 15:13, 15, 30.
