Cultivating Contentment

“Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.” Philippians 4:11-12

Our material-oriented culture is programmed to generate discontentment. That is why each year brings new cars, new fashions, new improvements, all designed to make us dissatisfied with our present status or possessions.

Cultivating contentment in the Christian life begins with understanding that things never define our value. Our job, neighborhood, or net worth does not figure into God’s equation for value and worth. Our value lies in our priceless relationship to God as our Father. Still more, we can counter the anxious and stressful tug of discontentment with a solid understanding of several basic scriptural truths.

God cares for you. As His child, He has assumed responsibility for providing for your emotional, spiritual, and physical needs. He will do so as you trust Him without reservation while going about the routine tasks of each day.

God is in control. When a job runs out, a mate quits, a friend deserts, God is quietly but sovereignly at work for your good. You are not a victim of the economy or another’s decision.

You can be content in any circumstance when you are sure of God’s unceasing care and absolute control of every detail. Rest in His ability and contentment will follow.

“How rich a God our God is! He gives enough but we don’t notice it.” -Martin Luther