Comparison or Contentment?

We live in a society that feeds on comparison and competition so that contentment becomes a rare commodity. We have all seen someone else's new car, pickup, or tractor. We have witnessed others who are not as athletic playing while others more talented sit on the bench. We have all been over to a friends new or newly remodeled home. We've heard about a friend who received a generous scholarship to attend school or a young couple whose parent's bought them a new home. We have all been in situations where we look with comparison or competition on another person and feel a nagging sense of discontent. Paul's words in Philippians 4 give some much needed guidance and encouragement to those struggling with contentment. "...for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstance I am...I can do all things through Him who strengthens me" (Phil. 4:11,13).