Recently in the Gulf, there was an explosion. A British Petroleum offshore drilling rig blew up. It has caused several deaths and they have not been able to contain the oil coming up from below the sea. This looks to be a terrible mess for many people.

Several things are hampered by the oil spilling into the Gulf. For an area that depends on fishing as a livelihood, this is not good. The Gulf coast is also a recreation area that attracts many tourists. Perhaps this year they will find a different place to vacation. This has far reaching effects that we may never think of.

Consider the fisherman who cannot fish. His house payments, utilities, etc. still go on. If he doesn’t fish, he doesn’t make money. He could lose most, if not all, that he has. The same is true for those working in the hotel and restaurant industries. This will hurt many people in the future.

Sometimes things happen that are beyond our control. There are times that we err and cause things to happen. But when it is beyond our control, what do we do? We could worry but, Jesus says that won’t add a single cubit to your life-span (Matt. 6:27). We could blame others. There are many times we do that, even when it may be our own fault.

And then we could learn from the Apostle Paul. He stated, "Not that I speak from want; for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am" (Phil. 4:11 NASV). How many times do we wish for things to be better? How many times do we remember the past and yearn for it? How many times have we learned this great lesson of contentment? In the next verse, Paul said he learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.

Thanks, Paul, I need to learn this great lesson. Even when bad things happen, we all can learn to be content. Paul did this by relying on God. He did not force his way into the situation but trusted in One mightier than he. As he did, God gave him what he needed physically and spiritually.

I don’t know all of your circumstances today but, I do know this—if you will surrender to God, He will bring about the best for your life. He will supply your needs (Phil. 4:19). Why not just do the best you can and accept God’s help with the rest? I believe I will.