Contentment

Question #1: Are you a child of God?  According to Scripture, you are if you have put your faith and trust in Jesus as your Savior (John 1:12).  Question #2: How do you live as a child of God?  The Bible says we are to live wisely (Ephesians 5:15).  Some people become anxious and fearful about things that happen to them.  Sometimes, even people who are children of God tend to forget that they are a member of God’s family and that they should entrust their lives to God.  In the Bible, the Apostle Paul said, “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” (Philippians 4:11-12).

Here are several life situations.  Think about what a child of God might do in these circumstances.

1)      A Strained Relationship.  Suppose a relationship with a family member has gone bad.  A child of God could think of persons who may have never known what it is like to love and be loved and pray for that family member.

2)      Purpose in Life.  Everyone wants their life to count for something.  A child of God can be thankful to God because God has gifted every child of His with abilities to do things well.  There are many people who struggle to find purpose in life.

3)      Unkind People.  Perhaps you might encounter someone who is unkind, bitter, or harsh as they interact with others.  If you are a child of God, you can pray for that individual asking God to help you be courteous and kind to them and to others.

4)      Physical Difficulties.  Some people do not have vocal cords with which to speak and sing or hands to use to help others.  You can thank God for what you can do and pray for contentment for these people.

5)      Failing Health.  You may find yourself with failing health or maybe you are unable to get around like you used to.  If you are a child of God, you can be thankful for the portion of health that God has given you and that He meets all your needs.  You can also pray asking God to help those who have difficulty in these areas.

The child of God should have a contented life.  However, notice that the Apostle Paul said that contentment is something that needs to be “learned” – it does not just happen naturally.  It does not matter what the situation is - even if you are challenged by your circumstances.  You can always give thanks to God and ask Him to give you an attitude of contentment.  What is the secret of contentment?  It is to trust God completely and trust Him in everything. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6).

I challenge you to live a contented life.