Contentment is an elusive feeling for many, myself included. But I am learning as I get older that contentment, once define correctly, is all around me. The word means, happiness, serenity, gladness, satisfaction, pleasure. But what of those things is important you? If you had asked me this question 30 years ago I would have given a different response.
Thirty years ago, happiness and serenity were not part of my vocabulary. Thirty years ago I felt that if I were rich I would have no problems and everything would be perfect. But, when my family's financial situation improved, I realized I still did not feel content.
These verses point out that having food to eat and a place to sleep signals contentment. I had all those things, but I was not content. So, is contentment a choice? But if
we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 1 Timothy 6:8 (NIV)
The point I make is, for me, once I encountered Jesus in a real way, once I desired a personal relationship with Him, contentment became natural. But...I find I must fight for this contentment every day, because for me, it is a choice. I can choose if I am going to buy things I don't need and pursue them at the expense of my budget.
I must chose if I am going to be happy and content to have my bills paid and food on the table and a roof over my head, or if I am going to covet that new car, that exciting vacation and more. Not that any of these things are bad, but I must not allow them to get in the way of my contentment, my peace and serenity...or take away my joy in living.
1 Timothy 6:6-9
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