Nobody ever asks for things in the final moments of life. They always ask for people, because eventually everybody learns that life is all about relationships. Why not learn that sooner?

“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 4:12-13 NIV). 

Contentment does not come naturally to human beings. By nature, we are restless sheep. Yet we can learn contentment. Learning contentment means we stop incessantly grabbing for more.

Philippians 4:12-13 says, “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” (NIV).

The greatest things in life aren’t things.

In America it’s considered a tragedy to “die penniless.” But what better time to go? If you were out of here the moment you spent your last cent, I’d call that wise, not foolish. That’s just a brilliant way to live and die!

Nobody ever asks for things in the final moments of life. They always ask for people, because eventually everybody learns that life is all about relationships. Why not learn that sooner? It sure would relieve a lot of stress.

Life is not about achievements. It’s not about accomplishments. 

Life is about relationships.

Talk It Over

Which is more important to you: acquiring things or building relationships? Would your family and friends agree with your self-assessment?

What do you think it means to leave a legacy? What kind of legacy do you want to leave?

Paul said in Philippians 4:13 that he could do all things through Christ who gave him strength. What kind of things do you think he was talking about?

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This devotional © 2019 by Rick Warren. All rights reserved. Used by permission.