I Have Learned To Be Content

By Tori Harris

One of the key elements of the American dream is economic gain. Countless people have started new lives in America, dedicated to building wealth and improving their lot in life. We as Christians should constantly be growing and working on ourselves (2 Peter 3:18), but regarding materialistic things, this mindset often gets taken too far. How many people do you know who are always chasing after something better, whether it be money, possessions, job promotions, better relationships, or better circumstances?

We live in a selfish and materialistic society where most of the population is focused on improving their position in this temporary life rather than in eternity. Many Americans no longer grasp the true meaning of contentment because they are always busy chasing after more. We must learn to be like Paul in Philippians 4:11, where he states, “I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.”

Contentment does not come naturally. It takes effort and practice to make this our mindset. So how do we do it?

First, we need to always be thankful for what God has given us. Count Your Blessings is so much more than just a catchy song. Nothing cures discontentment like thinking about everything God has done and continues to do for us.

We also need to set our minds on the right things. In the church, we often reference Colossians 3:2 and Philippians 4:8, but do we actually obey them? If we find ourselves feeling discontent, that could be a sign to study those passages and examine ourselves. We need to put these things into our minds to keep us focused, joyful, and content.

Another thing we need to do is refrain from complaining. This is a hard one for many people. When something goes wrong, or we don’t get our way, it’s so easy to give in to the temptation to complain. But this is not how we are supposed to be. Philippians 2:14 says, “Do all things without complaining.” This is an explicit command from God. We must grasp the importance of this. Complaining only leads to more discontentment.

Finally, we must rely on God completely, recognizing that we are nothing without Him. Without God, the world wouldn’t even exist. He is our Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer. He takes care of His children. Relying on Him to do so takes care of any discontentment.

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A Lesson From Fences