Philippians 4:11–13 NLT 
Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. 

[02/17/2024; iPhone 14 ProMax] 

Back when I was in high school, there was a girl I knew who was from Denmark. I had never met anyone from there, but over the years through social media, I would occasionally see stories of her visiting family out in Copenhagen. The photos of the canals, the streets, and the architecture always stuck with me, and I knew someday I had to go see it for myself. In February 2024, I finally made my way out there with my buddy Cole. I didn’t know what to expect from Denmark in its fullness, but compared to all the photos I had seen, Copenhagen, in person, surprised me in all the best ways. I am not sure if it was the time of year, but the air was so fresh; and the city has this balance of modern energy and quiet simplicity. All the locals were very stylish, and people biked and walked everywhere, I also noticed that everyone seemed to be really fit. After arriving at CPH airport, we took a cab to check into the Generator Hostel, but since our rooms weren’t ready yet, we carried our bags and made our way straight toward Nyhavn. 

On our short walk, I could feel the cold air drift into my lungs in a way I hadn’t experienced before, I took a deep breath in and looked at Cole and we both agreed right away that Copenhagen was “it.” We really liked it here. Along the way, we stumbled into a nearby bakery called St. Peders Bageri, which is the oldest bakery in all of Denmark, dating back to 1652. I went all in with a pistachio danish and a cinnamon roll and let me just say.. I highly recommend you try it, should you ever end up in the streets of Copenhagen. 

Walking through Copenhagen felt like entering a place where life doesn’t need to rush. Colorful houses and buildings lined Nyhavn. Cafés spilled out onto sidewalks with candles flickering in the afternoon, and the waterfront view was peaceful. The Danes have a word for this kind of atmosphere — hygge. It’s about coziness, contentment, and finding joy in simple things. 

That’s when Philippians 4 came to mind. Paul talks about learning the secret of contentment, whether with plenty or with little. In many ways, hygge is a cultural reflection of this idea. The Danes celebrate simple joys, such as a warm drink, good conversation, and a light jog along the city streets. These are reminders of how life doesn’t always have to be hurried or extravagant to be meaningful. But Paul takes it a step further, Paul reminds us that true contentment isn’t just about atmosphere. It’s about Christ. He is the source of strength that allows us to be steady, grounded, and full no matter the situation. 

Once we finally checked into the hostel later that day, the lobby was alive with energy. Further inside, live music was playing, a pool table was in use, and even one of those punching bag arcade games drew a crowd. The whole space was buzzing with people from all over the world, each on their own adventure but sharing the same excitement of exploring a new city. Later that night, Cole and I made our way back to Nyhavn to take in more of the nightlife. The streets glowed, the water reflected the lights, and we ended the evening with dinner at a spot called Host. In the middle of it all, I felt God reminding me this is the kind of rhythm He wants for me. Not rushing for the next big thing but learning to be rooted in His presence.  

As I prepared to leave Copenhagen, I carried more than memories of buildings and canals. I left with a fresh reminder that contentment isn’t about getting everything right or planning the perfect trip. It’s about trusting Jesus in the middle of whatever is in front of me. Hygge may describe the atmosphere of Denmark, but Philippians describes the atmosphere of the heart when Christ is at the center.

Closing 

Here’s the reminder: Christ is your strength. His presence is enough in seasons of plenty and in seasons of lack 

Jesus is KING. 

As you reflect this week, ask yourself:  

Where in your life is God inviting you to slow down and experience His peace? 

What would it look like to practice contentment rooted in Christ, not in circumstances? 

Please share in the comments!

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