I’m sitting on our back patio. It’s November and it’s 75 degrees and sunny. Kristen and I have joked that we live all year where others just come to vacation for a few days. How could it get much better? I’m so thankful God created Florida! But then why does mind continually wander to wanting all kinds of things I don’t have? Why does the grass always seem greener in other neighborhoods, other houses, other cars, other toys, other everything else? Why can’t I just live grateful for what I do have?

I guess it’s good timing that was the storyteller this past week in Upstreet (our church’s elementary-age program on Sundays). Good timing because November is all about “contentment” and having the will to chill with who God made you to be and what God has given you.

In Philippians 4:11-12, Paul says, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 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.”

Wow! I want to be content in all circumstances. But how? Well take the “Will to Chill Challenge” with me and all the UpStreet leaders and kids this month. Have your whole family do it together. Here’s how it works…

Get a rubber band or string, and put it on one wrist as a bracelet. Whenever you complain or find yourself wanting stuff you don’t have (not being content) switch the bracelet to a different wrist. See if you can make it three days in a row being content. One thing, don’t call your other family members out when they are not being content 9unless your having fun with it).

Let me know if you are doing it. I’ve got a prize for the first person to post a comment leting me know they’ve gone three straight days being content. Go!