I’m learning what it means to “be content in whatever state I am” (Philippians 4:11).

It’s tough for me to stay positive when I’m in need or feeling like something’s missing. My mind zooms in on that one thing that’s “wrong,” and I use up all my energy trying to fix it.

I’ve talked before about 5 ways I’m learning to let go of control, but if I’m being real, I still struggle—big time. Letting go and letting God take the lead doesn’t come easy.

Sure, I’ve gotten better in some areas, but I know God is guiding me to loosen my grip completely. Apparently, I’ve got a lot to learn. 😩

Season of Need

Right now, I’m laser-focused on one big, uncontrollable situation: I don’t have a job.

There’s a lot of uncertainty in my life—no job, no stability, not much money, no place of my own. And to be honest, it’s left me feeling insecure, like a burden, and even worthless at times.

Struggling with Rejection

Independence is huge for me, and honestly, it’s how I define myself. So when I have a need, my first instinct is to solve it—fast. But when things don’t work out like I hoped, it hits me hard. I feel helpless.

For example, I went to a job interview recently, and it went better than expected. I thought this was it—the perfect opportunity. But when I didn’t get the job, the rejection crushed me more than I’d like to admit. I couldn’t shake the feeling of not being good enough.

My Rebuke and Hope

I was salty that God didn’t come through for me the way I wanted. I woke up the next day with a heavy heart and questions like, “What are You doing, God?” and “What’s the plan here?”

It felt like I was doing everything right—applying for jobs, putting myself out there, even when I didn’t feel like it. But God? He wasn’t “holding up His end” (or so I thought).

Then the Holy Spirit nudged me to read Philippians 4:13, but this time, I felt led to go back and read the verses before it.

So, I opened my Bible that morning and read through Philippians 4. Certain verses jumped out at me—kind of a rebuke, but also a wave of encouragement.

Learning to Rely on God’s Timing

Philippians 4:13 is often used when we need a pep talk. But I realized it’s about more than feeling invincible. It’s about faith, surrender, dependence, and—most importantly—contentment.

Rebuke in Philippians

Here are the verses that spoke to me and the lessons I took from each:

  • Philippians 4:4 [KJV]
    • Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.
      • I wasn’t doing that. Instead of thanking God for everything, I was too focused on my problems, blaming Him for not fixing them.
  • Philippians 4:6-7 [KJV]
    • Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
      • Instead of humbly presenting my needs to God and trusting His timing, I was trying to help Him by forcing things to happen my way. No wonder I had no peace.
  • Philippians 4:8 [KJV]
    • Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
      • I realized I was stuck in negative thinking, feeding myself lies instead of choosing to focus on what’s good. I need to choose positivity and reflect on how God has guided me in the past, trusting He’ll do it again.
  • Philippians 4:11 [KJV]
    • Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.
      • I’m in a state of need, and that’s just where I am right now. Instead of rushing to “fix” it, I need to learn to be content in this moment, trusting God is working in the background.

Encouragement

  • Philippians 4:12 [KJV]
    • I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
      • God’s teaching me to be content whether I’m in abundance or lacking. It’s about trusting Him, even when things don’t make sense.
  • Philippians 4:13 [KJV]
    • I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
      • This verse reminded me that I’m not meant to do life alone. With Christ, I can handle whatever comes my way—both the good and the tough stuff.
  • Philippians 4:19 [KJV]
    • But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
      • God knows my needs. If I let go and trust Him, He’ll take care of me in His perfect timing.

Practical Application

These verses were a reality check for me, but they also gave me hope. They reminded me that while things may not look great right now, a heart full of gratitude can make a huge difference.

So, in classic Juu fashion, here are 5 things I want to start applying to build a more grateful heart:

  1. Gratitude Journal
    I’ve started one before, but consistency is where I struggle. I think being intentional about it will help me shift my mindset.
  2. Positive Speech
    I tend to talk negatively, hoping for some reassurance. Instead, I want to work on speaking positively, even when I don’t feel it. Words have power.
  3. Prayer Journal
    I’ve been keeping a prayer journal, but I need to get better at writing down my needs and fully laying them at God’s feet.
  4. Contentment
    Being content is hard in today’s world. We’re constantly told we need more. But I want to be okay with where I am, while still trusting God for where I’m headed.
  5. Servitude
    Focusing on helping others takes the focus off my own struggles. It gives me a sense of purpose and reminds me I’m valuable.

Conclusion

This devotional reminded me that God sees my needs and my desires, but He asks me to trust His timing. He’s not a genie to grant wishes; He’s my Father and Friend, and He’s building a relationship with me.

Choosing gratitude and praise, even in tough times, is my way of saying, “God, I trust You.” Even when I don’t get it, I know He’s got it. And honestly? Trusting God feels way better than stressing myself out. 😂

You’re not alone in this journey. It’s hard to let go and choose gratitude when life’s a mess, but God promises to give us the strength to do it. Plus, a grateful heart is better for your mental health than the alternative. 😉

Praying always,
YCB ~