What are your circumstances?

1 Phil 4:10-19 - Brothers and sisters: I rejoice greatly in the Lord that now at last you revived your concern for me. You were, of course, concerned about me but lacked an opportunity. Not that I say this because of need, for I have learned, in whatever situation I find myself, to be self-sufficient. I know indeed how to live in humble circumstances; I know also how to live with abundance. In every circumstance and in all things I have learned the secret of being well fed and of going hungry, of living in abundance and of being in need. I have the strength for everything through him who empowers me. Still, it was kind of you to share in my distress.

You Philippians indeed know that at the beginning of the Gospel, when I left Macedonia,
not a single church shared with me in an account of giving and receiving, except you alone. For even when I was at Thessalonica you sent me something for my needs, not only once but more than once. It is not that I am eager for the gift; rather, I am eager for the profit that accrues to your account. I have received full payment and I abound.

I am very well supplied because of what I received from you through Epaphroditus,
"a fragrant aroma," an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. My God will fully supply whatever you need, in accord with his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. 

Thoughts: This is something I have thought about for years. Namely, that I need to approach life with humility, allowing people to care for me. For in allowing others to care and do for me, I give them the opportunity to be strengthened through serving others. 

For example, some friends serve food for others on Wednesday nights at the church. Can I make food myself? Yes, I am fully able to take care of myself, but allowing myself to be taken care of by others gives them the opportunity to build up their spiritual strength. St. Paul also writes about humbly and joyfully living within your circumstances. 

There will be times that you live in abundance. These are the times when everything seems to be going right. We are to rejoice in those times and be glad. Too often, I want to be ashamed and I feel guilty when things are going good. Like I don't deserve it because everyone around me is not in the same state.

At other times, you may be experiencing hardship; again we are to rejoice that God is with us at these times also. It is how we react at these times that give true witness to the life of Christ in us. However, this does not mean that I need to assume others hardships. I can be helpful and supportive but others crosses have been given to them to carry. We each must carry our own cross. The one that was given to us to carry.

Question: How do you deal with abundance? hardship?