Godly Contentment

Life is full of journeys. As we live our lives we are often on the move, diligently seeking something better or more fulfilling. Life itself is a journey which involves examination and contemplation. We examine what is going on around us and we contemplate what to do about it. Why are we not content? Most of us say things like this: "Well if I can get this changed then I'll be happy," or "If I only had this, then I'd be satisfied." And when we get the sought after item or change we're content for a short time until something else comes along. When you think about it are any of us ever really content? Probably not. But Paul writes, "Now godliness with contentment is great gain, " (1 Tim. 6:6 NKJV). This tells us that we can be content. But how? Solomon gives us three keys in Ecclesiastes 5:18-20.

Work Hard For What You Have

Some consider laziness as a virtue, and abhor the thought of actually working for something. But the Bible condemns such notions and teaches us that we are to work during our sojourn here on earth (Genesis 2:15; Exodus 20:9; 2 Thess. 3:10). There are many Bible passages which teach the value of hard work. Also, the Bible teaches against working too hard. "Do not overwork to be rich"(Proverbs 23:4). We need to be balanced in our efforts if we are to be content in this life.

Enjoy What You Have

We should take the time once in a while to enjoy the fruit of our labors. Some work diligently to gain new things and don't even take time to enjoy what they have. Perhaps it is because they are focused on what they don't have. If we have this mentality then we will never be content regardless of what we gain. Stop and smell the roses! If we cannot enjoy life now, we may never enjoy it. We should not focus on what we do not have, nor should we overemphasize what we do. Riches and goods perish, as do health and good fortune (Ecclesiastes 5:13,14). If we realize this, we can enjoy them for what they are and not be too distressed when they are gone.

Realize Who Gives You What You Have

If we are to truly be content in this life, we must realize that every good gift comes to us from God above (Js. 1:17). God gives us what we have and He gives us the power to enjoy it. We must not think that it is by our own power that we have what we have, but in all things we ought to give glory to God (1 Cor. 10:31).

In an ever-changing world it can be very difficult to be content. We must not let the standards of the world affect our happiness. If we follow God's instructions, we will not have time to worry about the trials of the past or the uncertainties of the future. We will be content to dwell in each day enjoying and making the most of each moment.