How was that it that selfish capitalist Oskar Schindler transitioned from being a self-centered, self-indulged businessman in order to live a life of poverty committed to winning the freedom of 1200 holocaust Jews? Was this a one time historical moving of God in his personal heart, or is this same passion of Christ available to grasp the hearts of each of us in our own resistant and desperately self-led hearts? Is there within us too a life of quiet desperation that yearns to be freed in our own search for passion and purpose?

I wonder if there is a key that we have not yet found or perhaps not fully embraced. It is easily located in Philippians 4:11-12 and concludes with the ever popular, and misunderstood verse in Philippians 4:13.

“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 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 all this through him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:11-13

At first glance, this passage appears to deal with the presence or lack of physical possessions, food, and they such. But of course, it speaks more specifically to the condition of the heart, to the ungodly passions that guide our heart, and even godly ambitions that grab our heart more than the singular passion to be pleased with who God is in us, rather than who we desire to be in Him. We get so easily distracted between being a child of God and doing His business, especially our perception of what that business should be. Our egos are so easily pleased with personal desires that lead us to such lives of quiet desperation. Better that we embrace sooner and more fully the life of contentment simply being His child and enjoying God forever in our our lives, quite free of our personal agendas.

In what areas of your life have you found this peace? And in what areas is the holy and loving God continuing to speak, peace, be still, be content in me? Be still and know that God is God in your heart and in your life. YOU will find freedom that will no doubt pass on to others around you. Stop striving. Be blessed.