When We Are Content

 

     What brings us contentment? What needs have to be met? Do our situations and people around us need to live up to our expectations? How about interruptions? Do they cause a disturbance in your mood? Do you react to the actions of everyone and everything around you as if they need to accommodate you? During this time of great division, of having lived through a pandemic, of civil unrest, it would seem nearly impossible to remain content.

     Can we use the Holy Spirit’s help to stay content throughout the day? It’s not easy. Stress finds us out of sorts and anxious. A disagreement over the simplest of things hits us right in the stomach.  Doing too much depletes us. A sleepless night or two leaves us grouchy and sensitive.

     As the Bible says over and over again, “But God…” He always comes through for us and peace and contentment are promised by God. Turn to Him in thought and prayer when you feel the seeds of discontent about to plant themselves within your heart.

But godliness with contentment is great gain.  1 Timothy 6:6

      The Apostle Paul was shipwrecked, beaten, lived in poverty, arrested and put in jail. Here is his answer from within the prison walls.

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again. Rejoice!” Philippians 4:4.

     Is it any wonder the jailers in charge of him accepted Christ? When we stay joy-filled and peaceful (with the help of God) it becomes contagious. Rely on Jesus. He can help. We’ll never get it just right, but He can transform us, day by day.

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 means 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. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:11-13

Dear Father,

Contentment is hard to find in these crazy days, but with You all things are possible. Give us peace and contentment within our hearts and souls, no matter the circumstances. We can and will rejoice in You always.

In Jesus name,

Amen