GroshLink

A friend passed along this encouragement to me.

Nothing is lovelier in life, than the spirit of contentment. Fretting mars the beauty of many a face. Discontent spoils all one's world. Out of whatever window he looks--the discontented person sees something that is not pleasing.

But a contented person sees only good everywhere. The happiest homes in the world are not those in which are the finest carpets, the costliest pictures, the most luxurious furniture -- but those in which contented, joyful hearts dwell. A mind at peace, beautifies the plainest surroundings and even the hardest conditions.  Saint Paul was in a prison when he wrote: “I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therein to be content.” The secret was in himself. -- James Russell Miller. Counsel and Help (1907). http://lesson-love.jr-miller.com/2-things-that-are-lovely-3.html.

I am unfamiliar with the author/book.  According to wikipedia, James Russell Miller (March 20, 1840 – July 2, 1912) was a popular Christian author, Editorial Superintendent of the Presbyterian Board of Publication, and pastor of several churches in Pennsylvania and Illinois.  FYI:  I noticed an error in the wikipedia page.  It links to trivia on Charles Monroe Sheldon's In His Steps (note: this link takes you to google books) instead of the earlier In His Steps published by Miller.  The two versions have a different purpose and style of writing.

"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. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:11-13

A friend passed along this encouragement to me.

Nothing is lovelier in life, than the spirit of contentment. Fretting mars the beauty of many a face. Discontent spoils all one's world. Out of whatever window he looks--the discontented person sees something that is not pleasing.

But a contented person sees only good everywhere. The happiest homes in the world are not those in which are the finest carpets, the costliest pictures, the most luxurious furniture -- but those in which contented, joyful hearts dwell. A mind at peace, beautifies the plainest surroundings and even the hardest conditions.  Saint Paul was in a prison when he wrote: “I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therein to be content.” The secret was in himself. -- James Russell Miller. Counsel and Help (1907). http://lesson-love.jr-miller.com/2-things-that-are-lovely-3.html.

I am unfamiliar with the author/book.  According to wikipedia, James Russell Miller (March 20, 1840 – July 2, 1912) was a popular Christian author, Editorial Superintendent of the Presbyterian Board of Publication, and pastor of several churches in Pennsylvania and Illinois.  FYI:  I noticed an error in the wikipedia page.  It links to trivia on Charles Monroe Sheldon's In His Steps (note: this link takes you to google books) instead of the earlier In His Steps published by Miller.  The two versions have a different purpose and style of writing.

"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 situat