One dictionary defines contentment as “the state of being mentally or emotionally satisfied with things as they are.” Today it is rare that we find anyone who is truly content with his or her condition in life. The Bible has a great deal to say about contentment—being satisfied with what we have, who we are, and where we’re going. Jesus said, “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?” (Matthew 6:25).
In essence, Jesus is telling us to be content with what we have. Moreover, He has given us a direct command not to worry about the things of this world. Then He adds, “For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:32-33). From Jesus’ words, we can deduce that lack of contentment is sin and it puts us in the same category as those who do not know God.
The apostle Paul was a man who suffered and went without the comforts of life more than most people could ever imagine (2 Corinthians 11:23-28). Yet he knew the secret of contentment: “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 4:12-13). The writer to the Hebrews adds, “Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’ So we may boldly say: ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” (Hebrews 13:5-6). Yet people continue to seek after more of the things of this world, never contented with their lot in life. The bumper sticker that reads “He with the most toys wins!” epitomizes the world’s cravings for more and more.
The latest global statistic shows that if one has a roof over his head and a meal on his table he is richer than 93 percent of the world’s population. If a person wears a pair of shoes he is richer than 75 percent of the people in the world. In the United States alone, credit card debt averages more than $16,000 per household, and we are still discontented. Solomon, the wisest and richest man who ever lived, said, “Whoever loves money never has money enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with his income. This too is meaningless” (Ecclesiastes 5:10).
“Be content with such things as you have” means as believers such should be our trust and confidence in God that we should be satisfied with our condition regardless of our circumstances. For we know assuredly that if we are faithful God will cause all things to work together for our good (Romans 8:28).
To worry means we do not trust God. The key to overcoming our discontentment and lack of faith is to find out who God really is and how He has been faithful to supply the needs of His people in the past. Such study will grow one’s confidence and trust for the future. The apostle Peter said it succinctly: “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:6-7).
Reblogged this on Talmidimblogging.
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A much needed reminder…thankyou Blessings
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Thank you, Linda, for the kind words and acknowledgment. They are greatly appreciated.
Yes, I think every-once-in-awhile people need reminders to step away from the material world and seek contentment. People are always chasing material things as if they can buy status, health, salvation or contentment..
May The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob bless and keep you and yours.
Yours in Christ;
Michael
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And I even sometimes have trouble with being content with where He has placed me or with what He has placed into/out of my life at a certain time….so I found your post helpful in that way also. Blessings to you also Michael
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Linda;
Everyone, from time to time, feels just as you do about what God has brought into, or taken from, our lives. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 tells us to :”give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
But we must remember that our ways are not God’s ways; more precisely: “”For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD.” Isaiah 55:8. We must be patient with God and know that His plan for us is a better plan. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 .
I hope this has helped you, Linda. And thank you for your comments and testimony.
God bless you.
Yours in Christ;
Michael
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Thankyou again. I rely heavily and often on Jer. 29:ll ..:) …God bless you too, Michael.
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You’re quite welcome, Linda. I am glad I was about to bring some comfort to you. Seems we’re on the same page with Jerimiah 29:11 then. (smiling).
Thank you also for the blessings. I do so appreciate them.
Yours in Christ always;
Michael
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Awesome!
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