I am content.

"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:12-13

Content: Held; quiet; not disturbed; having a mind at peace; easy; satisfied; to make easy in any situation; to make quiet, so as to stop complaint or opposition; rest or quietness of the mind in the present condition; satisfaction which holds the mind in peace, restraining complaint, opposition, or further desire, and often implying a moderate degree of happiness;

A little while ago I would have said that being content is hard, especially with all my dreams of having a huge farm and a little cabin that are unachievable at the moment. But recently I've felt a contentment like no contentment I've ever felt before.

I have my goals and dreams that I am sure God put on my heart for His perfect plan for my life, and I'm working towards those goals and dreams every day. But before, I would make a plan and then realize that maybe an aspect of it wasn't possible because I didn't have enough money or enough space, then I would start to wish that we lived on a bigger piece of property or I had more money to work with, and I was frustrated that I didn't have those things.

But just within the last couple weeks a gradual change has come over my heart and I've realized that I am content and there is no reason not to be content. "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain." Philippians 1:21. Anything else God has given us besides our life is an extra blessing because He loves us that much. He put me in the perfect family for me. He gave me a great house to live in that's warm and dry and it's really nice. He made sure the house would have a good size yard so that I could start pursuing the dreams that He put on my heart, by giving me enough space for a huge garden and a chicken coop and a rabbit shed. He gave my dad an awesome job so that he can provide for my family and help me pay for my animal and garden endeavors. My grandparents live right next door to us and I can visit them whenever I want. I am surrounded by an amazing circle of friends and family who love me and are helping me learn and grow. The list goes on and on!

I've also realized that my relationship with God has been growing stronger and stronger and I am constantly thinking about Him and talking to Him and thanking Him and in return He is like "Mary, I love you so much. I'm gonna help you achieve your goals and make you content wherever you are." and I'm like "Wow! Thank you Lord! I'm so happy! And now I understand the secret to being content, just like Paul understood in prison. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength."

I'm content. I'm at peace. I am held by the creator of the universe. I am satisfied. I am happy. Life is a wonderful thing that God has given us to live, and as long as we have Him, we have everything we could ever need.