You may be familiar with the film and book of this name, written by Rhonda Byrne. It promotes the pseudoscientific and spiritual teaching known as the ‘law of attraction’, which claims that mere thoughts can influence our circumstances. If you think positively, you will bring into existence the circumstances and success you desire.

While no doubt we can benefit from a positive mindset, ultimately ‘The Secret’ simply isn’t compatible with Christianity. The purpose of this deceptive teaching seems to be all about manipulating circumstances for personal gain here on earth, whereas Christians are taught to store up ‘treasure in heaven’ (Matthew 6), and to “deny ourselves, take up our cross and follow [Him]” (Mark 8:34). Moreover, ‘The Secret’ is all about the glorification and self-sufficiency of human beings, rather than humbly relying on and honouring our Creator.

There is, however, a different secret that I am interested in, and we hear about it in Philippians 4. Paul says, “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 all this through him who gives me strength.” (verses 12,13) Living for the glory of God means that we are focused on more than our own earthly circumstances. We can be truly content in wealth or poverty, knowing how blessed we are in Christ, grateful simply for the undeserved gift of life, and more concerned about the fulfilment of God’s eternal purposes than experiencing temporary pleasure and worldly success. Learn this secret of contentment in Christ, and you won’t despair when the phoney ‘secret’ peddled by Byrne and others lets you down. You can be content, in His strength and for His glory alone.

Lord, please teach me that You are more than enough, that You bring joy and contentment found in nothing and no one else. Amen.