I have ‘learned’ that no matter how firmly I have ‘decided’ to feel a certain way—some things just have to be learned, some over a period of time, and some the hard way (through hard times).

I don’t know how much we really gain through good times, that makes us better.

What is the measure of better, inside ?
More and more, I think it is contentment.

So, contentment—is it learned or decided ?

See what the Bible says,
“I have learned, in whatever state I am, therewith to be content.”
—–Paul

What does this—‘learned’ or ‘decided’—have to do with following Jesus ?
Paul’s testimony tells his answer:
“I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

We decide to follow Jesus, then we learn stuff the rest of our lives—stuff we had no idea.

“Call on Me, and I will answer you and show you great and mighty things, which you did not know.”