Philippians Chapter 4: Verses 11-12 (NIV)
I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 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.
1 Timothy Chapter 6: Verses 6-10 (NIV)
But godliness with contentment is great gain.For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.
The Collins dictionary denotes that contentment is a sense of quiet happiness and satisfaction. Someone who is content doesn’t feel the need to strive for anything more than they have. It was something Paul said that he had learned to do. I think it’s something we all need to learn. And Paul told Timothy it was something worth learning.
Too often we are striving for different things; a new job, a relationship, possessions, and when we get them, we are not always as happy as we think we should be. But if we pursue the things of God above all those other things, everything is put into perspective and we can learn to be content with our situation. I think that’s what Jesus was teaching His disciples when He said “So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 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 Chapter 6: 31-33 NIV) If we put things into perspective, and get our priorities right, as Jesus taught, and as Paul learned, it takes the pressure off, and then we can learn how to be content. We will never be content by looking at what everyone else is doing. But if we keep our hearts and minds focused on God, then we certainly will, because He will take care of the rest.
Dear Lord,
I’m grateful for the lesson Paul taught – a lesson that he learned for Jesus’ own teaching. Contentment is something that can be learned by putting You first. Help me to keep my focus on the things of God and then I know that I will be completely content, which in this day and age is a precious gift. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.