I love coffee. After my initial morning glass of water the coffee begins to flow. A “coffee-free” morning is rare – and extreme. It requires something dramatic like a required fast for blood work. Or a direct word from God.
Even after my disastrous “coffee accident” last Friday – I knocked a full mug over into the keyboard of my laptop – coffee is not a luxury but a necessity. I always pack coffee when I travel just in case it isn’t readily available. Depending on the circumstances I may also pack my own mug and my handy little water heating tool.
I can adapt to just about any conditions. I have slept in a tent in Africa. I have pottied in a hole in the ground. But a morning without coffee?
The apostle Paul could teach me an important lesson. Paul knew what it was like to have more than he needed. He also knew what it was like to be in great physical need. But in both situations he had learned to be content.
“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 3:12-13
Paul relied on Christ’s strength to experience contentment no matter his circumstances. Whether he was hungry or well fed. I have a long way to go. I can’t even be content without a good cup of coffee in the morning.
What about you? Do you struggle with finding contentment through strength in Christ no matter your circumstances?
Related post you may find helpful: Do you misuse Philippians 4:13?
This is me, but with sweet tea instead of coffee! I’ve figured out how to make iced tea from tea bags, sugar packets, and the hotel ice machine when I travel. We are going to England next year and I’m already slightly concerned about going without iced tea. I know there are spiritual implications here!
Hi Kelly! That definitely sounds like me! I hang on to the truth that God makes all good things – coffee and tea – for us! However, you are right, it does become a spiritual issue if those things become a crutch for us or we can’t do without them. Discipline, moderation, and priorities! Thanks for stopping by!