Contentment, Part 1

I know for me being content has always been a struggle. Why would it not be? We live in a world system that is designed to make us discontent. All the advertising and commercials are focused on one thing… making us want something. We are consumed with the temptation of a constant option of bigger, better and newer. We live in a world where people are often self-centered, consumerism-driven, in debt, filled with credit cards bills. Why? Because they want something they cannot afford and just can’t seem to live without. Our world flourishes with consumerism more than essentials of being a good neighbor or citizen in our community and society. Watch the news and you will see people protesting and rioting. Why? Because they are discontent with the current system, so then, somebody loots, steals, or kills. They want something they don’t have; they are discontent with what they have or their position in life. Consequently, their lives only produce paralysis and more discontentment, rather than liberation and fulfillment.

Phil. 4:11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.

So, for the next few days I will focus on being content as a Christian. May this lift the spirits of the saints in this day we live in. We live in an hour of temptation, a world designed to try the inhabitants of the earth.

Paul said he had, “learned” to be content.  So being content is a skill or could be an art.  It is a spiritual mystery. 

12 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.

Even Paul himself says that he has, “learned the secret.” The Greek word used here for, “learned the secret” could also be translated, “to initiate into the mysteries.” Paul points out that, “contentment” is to be learned as a great mystery. As Christians we are to train ourselves in the art of being content. Contentment is a great spiritual discipline that must be exercised if we are to become proficient. I hope and pray that over the next few days we can all learn to be as Paul says, “I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound,” … in all these things he was content in the Lord.