What is it about drama? Why is it that some people love it. Some people seem to pursue it. They chase after it like a dog chases a stick.
I started thinking, maybe it is a contentment issue. Maybe people create drama for themselves because they are not or struggle to be content with their lives.
The Apostle Paul writes in Philippians 4 that he has learned to be content in all things. He talks about how it doesn't matter if he's rich, poor, sick, or healthy. He has learned to be content.
I think the key in this statement from Paul is the word, "learn". He had to learn to be content. We don't really like that idea. Not being content is easy. But our discontentment leads us to pursue drama.
What do you think?
I think some people crave drama because they feel like they can control the boundaries. Kind of like failing on your own terms instead of attempting to succeed and failing out of control.
ReplyDeleteThat's a great perspective on this. I hadn't thought of that angle at all.
ReplyDeleteWell put, Dan. I think you nailed Part A of contentment in the word "learn." To "learn" contentment, we have to experience discontentment so we know the difference and than can "learn" to choose/decide to be content vs. otherwise. If we don't get knocked around a little (or a lot), or suffer through a few nasty ailments, how will we develop a thick enough skin and the proper immunities to know what we can weather and what we cannot?
ReplyDeleteBut that's not all of it. Sometimes, even often, life throws more than we can summon or learn the toughness to overcome. Look at what Paul endured. (see 2 Corinthians 11:16-33). So Paul goes on in this passage about the greater part of contentment, Part B if you will - Christ's Spirit in us whose strength is greater than our own and who doesn't have to "learn" how to become an over-comer. "And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19, ESV).
How rich is the glory of Christ Jesus that is the measure of supply given to us to overcome trial and "learn" contentment? (Answer - a lot.) Christians in the know know that Christ is the leader and teacher of our learning.
(Of course, Dan, you said the same as I just said but used fewer words. Sorry for the diatribe. Guess you sparked something in me.)
glenntrevisan Thanks Glenn! I don't see a diatribe at all, but a well thought out response. You're exactly right, Part B is the warm blanket we wrap ourselves up in as we are learning contentment. It's that beautiful moment when we get to experience the gospel beyond fire insurance.
ReplyDelete