“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.” –Philippians 3:11-12

I’ve always wondered a little about this passage. Paul claims to know a secret; a secret that enables him to live in perfect contentment. If the world knew this secret, all of humanity’s agony would cease. And yet, Paul neglects to let us in on this little mystery. He doesn’t tell us where to find the buried treasure or the fountain of youth. He doesn’t give us a 12 step program or a self-actualization pep-talk. Sure he tells us that he can do all things through Christ who strengthens him in the very next verse, but it seems to me that if the secret were as simple as Christ doing the strengthening, there wouldn’t be so many Christians complaining. (more…)