I gave a talk one morning not long ago on the idea of contentment (cf. Heb 13:5-6). The dictionary definition of contentment is to be satisfied, desiring no more than what one has. It is the opposite of coveting, or the lust of the eyes.
How many people have contentment in this world? It seems few have this rare and precious jewel. Divorce, sexual obsessions, drug problems, materialism, crime, the self-help movement – all these seem to testify to the fact that we lack contentment.
Many people have recognized the benefits of contentment. Socrates said, “He is the richest who is content with the least.” “He is well paid that is well satisfied” (Shakespeare). The Apostle Paul even wrote that “…godliness with contentment is great gain” (1 Tim. 6:6). So, how does one cultivate a life of contentment? Here are some ideas:
-Trust in God’s providence. He will provide for all your needs.
-Know that you can’t take any material thing with you after you leave this life.
-Realize what is truly essential for life (food, clothing, shelter) & be thankful to God for anything above and beyond.
-Understand that material things do not truly satisfy the deepest longings of the soul.
-Understand that contentment is a gift from God (Phil. 4:11-13)
But seek first the kingdom of God & His righteousness and all these things will be added to you-Matt. 6:33
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For further reading on the subject of contentment, check out The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment at the Deus Tecum bookstore.
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