LOOK AT WHAT YOU HAVE, NOT ON WHAT YOU HAVE NOT

Philippians 4:11 “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.”

FOCUS

In a culture obsessed with comparison and consumerism, God calls His people to live with contentment—not based on what we don’t have, but based on all He’s already given.

The Apostle Paul wrote the words of Philippians 4:11 from a prison cell. No windows. No luxury. No freedom. Yet his heart was free and full of gratitude. Why? Because Paul had learned the discipline of contentment. He chose to focus on what he had—Christ—rather than on what he lacked.

Our world preaches the gospel of scarcity. Social media feeds, marketing ads, and modern entertainment whisper the same message:

“You’re not enough… until you get more.”

But the Bible says otherwise.

Paul continues in Philippians 4:12–13:

“I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound… I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

His joy wasn’t anchored to possessions, positions, or popularity—but to the presence of Christ.

1 Timothy 6:6–8 “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.” - True wealth isn’t measured by what’s in your hand, but by what’s in your heart. The content believer is richer than the millionaire who constantly wants more.

Luke 12:15 “…for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.” - Your value is not in what you own—but in Whose you are.

Psalm 103:2 “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.” - Gratitude is not a feeling—it’s a focus.

A poor man passed a clothing shop and saw a pristine suit in the window. He sighed and said, “If only I had that, I’d finally feel like someone.”

Later that day, he caught his reflection in a mirror—his daughter holding his hand, beaming up at him. Suddenly, the suit didn’t seem so important.

We often spend life looking through windows of longing instead of into the mirror of blessing. But when we stop and see clearly what we already have, we realize we’ve been rich all along.

Today’s world thrives on dissatisfaction; a 2022 Pew Research study found that 62% of social media users said they feel less content after browsing their feeds.

According to Harvard’s Science of Gratitude report (2019), people who practice regular thankfulness are:

• 25% happier

• More emotionally resilient

• More connected in meaningful relationships

No wonder the enemy targets our contentment. If he can make us dwell on what’s missing, he’ll rob us of what’s meaningful.

But Christ reminds us that His grace is sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9), and in Him, we lack nothing (Psalm 23:1).

SHIFT YOUR GAZE

Let this be your prayer today:

“Lord, open my eyes to what I do have—salvation, family, Your Word, breath, hope, purpose, and peace.”

✦ Don’t dwell on what’s empty—delight in what’s eternal.

✦ Don’t envy another’s gain—thank God for your grace.

✦ Don’t chase everything—cherish the essentials.

What you focus on will either fuel your frustration or fill your faith.

IN CLOSING

There will always be something you wish you had. But there will also always be something someone else wishes they had that you already possess.

The enemy wants your eyes on what’s missing…

But the Spirit wants your heart on what’s already given.

As the hymn says:

“Count your blessings, name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.”