GRACE FOR CONTENTMENT
TEXT: 1 TIMOTHY 6:6-8
Contentment is a state of being happy and satisfied with what one has. The apostle Paul wrote in the above text "godliness with contentment is great gain" (vs 6). It should be understood that he was not just speaking philosophically but with clear understanding of the truth he knew. Breaking it down a little, "godliness" is a significant term in our Christian faith connoting total devotion to God. A heart that is devoted to God in happiness and satisfaction is contented.
A heart that is contended is an appreciative heart. The proof of our confession will be found in a life of contentment that is 'JESUS plus nothing'. Paul in his admonition to the Philippians in chapter 4 vs 11b "for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content". This means that contentment is a virtue to be learned and imbibed. Contentment itself is the mother of all graces. For out of the womb of contentment is born thankfulness and joyfulness and strength and usefulness in our Christian walk. A discontent heart cannot appreciate. Paul did not say 'by grace I am content', rather, he learnt it. Grace is however the enabler and the sustainer but he was the initiator that carried the grace of contentment.
Contentment is not an attitude of mind with which one is born. It is not something one learns from ungodly materialistic neighbours. It is not something we can learn in institutions that focus on teaching us how to make money. It is an attitude of mind that one develops by focusing on that which is above this material world. As Christians, our contentment is a gracious work in the heart. It is the spirit of restfulness and peace in whatever circumstances one may be placed.
Prayer: May the Lord strengthen us to be content with what He has given us and to not be focused on what our flesh wants or the world tells us we should have. Amen.
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