Section 9
We know from Paul's word in Philippians 4:10-12 that, at least for a period of time, he was short of supply. But he could testify, "I have learned, in whatever circumstances I am, to be content." He could say, "I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound; in every thing and in all things I have learned the secret both to be filled and to hunger, both to abound and to be in want." Because Paul had learned the secret, he could be content and, as a result, have an abundance of forbearance.
Many have pointed out that Philippians is a book of joy. Again and again Paul exhorts us to rejoice in the Lord. Paul's environment would have made it difficult for anyone to be joyful. We do not usually think of a prison as a place for rejoicing. But because Paul had no anxiety, no worry about his circumstances or future, he could rejoice in the Lord and be forbearing.
GOD'S ASSIGNMENT
If we would have a life free of anxiety, we need to realize that all our circumstances, good or bad, have been assigned to us by God. We need to have this realization with a full assur ance. Suppose a brother is in business as a mer chant. His business may prosper, and he may