The year 2014 is in the record books. Whether we used those 365 days wisely or foolishly, the tale’s been told.

At my age, the awareness of time’s passing becomes acute. It no longer seems to go on forever, and the word “fleeting” applies more often. We do what we can to hold onto important moments and special people.

But “holding on” isn’t wisdom. It isn’t even possible. A much wiser plan is to receive what we’re given as the days go by and to be content with that. But how?

Paul of the Bible admitted that contentment didn’t come naturally to him and that he had to learn it. He said, “I have learned to be content.” So how did he do it?

In the same passage he answers our question. The first step is to acknowledge our need for God to supply the ability to do it. (Philippians 4:19) God has a rich storehouse of “can-do” and is willing to share it with those who ask. Second, Paul says, “When I’m tempted to sink into negativity, I can find fresh strength and determination by asking God for strength to continue on.” (v. 13)

In other words, we can’t just say, ”My New Year’s resolution is to be content, no matter what.” That would stick for about 10 minutes.

Paul’s technique is to focus not on how we feel but on who Christ is and what he can do. We’re to count our blessings and then (very important) link them to the One who’s responsible for giving them. That should then cause us to rejoice in our relationship with him, which leads to contentment.

I have a hunch much of our natural discontent is linked to control issues. Most of us know that global fame, massive wealth, or any other “biggie” won’t bring contentment, and so we don’t waste time wishing for those. But we’re champions at wanting something a bit different than what we got.

We say, “Yes, Lord, I’m willing to live this particular life, but could we make a few changes first?” Then we go about tweaking what God has already put in place for us. In other words, we may not want more or better, but we often want different.

It might be a good idea this year to concentrate on receiving the life we’ve been given by asking God for enough of his grace to live in and through it well. (v. 23) When we do that, contentment is bound to follow.

“Let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him.” (1 Corinthians 7:17)

Praising and praying with Mary

I haven’t felt this good in a long time, and regardless of what’s ahead, I’m praising God for the safe, festive Christmas and New Years we’ve just shared as a family.