Contentment. The definition depends on the person, and likely, the definition is hard to pinpoint exactly. I would venture to guess that’s because for many contentment is a reactive response rather than a proactive decision. Contentment is elusive when we allow each day to redefine it. Consider these statements from some of the prominent authors in the Bible:
From Hebrews 13:5:
Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, “I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you.”
From Philippians 4:11-13:
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 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. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
From 1 Timothy 6:6-8:
But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.
Contentment is the recognition that our satisfaction is determined by an eternal God. Contentment is ultimately a choice that we make to trust in God as our Provider and our Hope. Contentment is not conditional. As Paul says in Philippians, “…for I have learned to be content in whatever the circumstances.” Though our circumstances change, our God is eternal, meaning His is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. His mercies are new every morning (Lamentations3:23), and His love never fails (Psalm 136). Do you believe that or are you struggling to be content in your current situation? Start by praying for the Lord’s patience, wisdom, and revelation. Ask God to search your heart and reveal areas where you have developed discontent. Discontent can look like a number of things: envy, jealousy, feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, fear, worry, etc. These things have one thing in common: none of these behaviors trust God. Trust God, and contentment will follow because as God himself says, “I will never leave you, nor will I ever forsake you.”
