Our reflection for today is from Dr. Charles Stanley of In Touch Ministries

For us as believers, contentment should be governed by inner attitude and the decisions we make rather than by external circumstances. Because Paul had learned this secret, he was able to experience joy and peace in any kind of situation — whether he was surrounded by friends or isolated in a Roman prison; whether he had plenty or was in great need.

The apostle understood what it meant to live in Christ and to have Christ living in him (John 15:1-9; Galatians 5:22-23). He had made a simple but profound faith decision to draw his life from the Lord and, as a result, had the calm assurance what he possessed inside could never be stolen. He was confident in his identity as a child of the Almighty, with full access to the abundant life Jesus offers.

I want to challenge you — this week, when something threatens to steal your contentment, choose to draw from God; decide to stop drawing from other sources and trying to be in control. When you find yourself becoming flustered, anxious, or angry, stop and say, “Lord, You are my source, and I draw from You the capacity to be kind. I draw from You the forgiveness I need to extend right now. I draw from You the love I need to express.” This decision is a matter of simple trust.

Watch and see how God will quiet your spirit and provide confidence when you draw only from Him as your source. You’ll be surprised at your own attitude: when you respond from within–rather than from the flesh — Jesus will give you the ability to respond as He would.

Charles Stanley is senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Atlanta, GA. He is the founder and president of In Touch Ministries and served two one-year terms as president of the Southern Baptist Convention from 1984-1986. He has an evangelical and dispensationalist theology. For more biblical teaching and resources from Dr. Stanley, visit intouch.org or listen to him at OnePlace.com

THOUGHT TO REMEMBER: Remember, This is the day the Lord has made.