Paul states in Philippians 2:12, "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." (NIV) The senior pastor at a church I fellowship with said that Paul learned to be happy without having to compare others, while he was in prison. I think this brings up a connection with a lot of Asian family social circles. Some Chinese Christians feel left out because they are being compared to unworldly cousins or siblings in the family. This really deals with them being scorned upon because of a family gossiper viewing lack of success in their life.
1 Timothy 6:6 states "But godliness with contentment is great gain." (NIV) I believe that we don't really need to doubt in how God is working through us because of our faith. God counts us as righteous because of our faith. Romans 3:22 states, "This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe..." (NIV) I know we are all human and sometimes look to be pleasing in other's eyes so we could may be lead them to the Lord. I totally believe it's all in God's personal timing for us to be a witness. Romans 8:28 states "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Remember the story of David waiting in the wilderness to be the next king of Judah and how he went through lot of pain and suffering from Saul? Remember Job's lament that placed Job in a situation to wait for his death to face eternal happiness with the Lord? God delivered both the hands of David and Job. Let's not doubt what Jesus could do for us.
Academy of Scrappy Credible Undergraduate Desire
