Not that I speak according to need, for I have learned to be content in whatever state I am in. I know also how to be humbled, I know also how to abound. In all things and by all things I have learned both to be satisfied and to be hungry, also to abound and to suffer need. I am strong in all things by Him who strengthens me, (Philippians 4:11–13).
The art of contentment comes from being trained by the Holy Spirit to abide in Christ in all situations and through every circumstance we face in this life (1 John 2:27). When it comes to the things of this world, we are not to be overcome by them, seeking to fulfill the desires from the flesh. Whether poor or wealthy, whether sick or healthy, we can do all things through Him who strengthens us. Godliness with contentment is great gain (1 Timothy 6:6). How we maintain our lives must, first and foremost, focus on living out the life we have in Christ, for this is true godliness. Bodily exercise has some value, but godliness is profitable for all things (1 Timothy 4:8).
Although many English translations include the word “Christ” in this passage, contextually, it is more appropriate to understand it as referring to the Holy Spirit. There is a textual issue in this verse, as some manuscripts exclude the word “Christ.” Based on the context—and by comparing it with other Scriptures—we can rightly determine that “Christ” was not in the original letter. It is the Holy Spirit who teaches and strengthens us to abide in Christ so that we may learn to be content in all things and through all things.