Living With Contentment Series

LIVING WITH CONTENTMENT

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Philippians 4:11-13 (NIV):

"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."

Supporting Texts: Hebrews 13:5, 1 Timothy 6:6-8, Proverbs 30:8-9, Matthew 6:25-34, 1 Thessalonians 5:18

INTRODUCTION:

In today’s world, contentment seems like a rare virtue. We are often bombarded with messages that encourage us to desire more, to keep striving for bigger and better possessions, and to compare ourselves with others. It’s easy to become dissatisfied with what we have when we look at what others possess or when we focus on what we don't have. The pursuit of happiness is often linked to accumulation, achievement, and success, but the Bible offers a different perspective—contentment.

Contentment is not merely a passive acceptance of one's circumstances but a deep sense of satisfaction and peace that comes from trusting in God’s provision. It is learned, not automatic, and requires a shift in focus—from what we lack to what we have in Christ. The apostle Paul exemplified this when he wrote from prison that he had learned to be content in every circumstance, whether in abundance or in need. He found his strength in Christ, and that is the secret to lasting contentment.

Living with contentment is not about having everything we want, but about being satisfied with what we have and finding joy in God's provision. It is rooted in the understanding that God is sovereign and that He provides for His children in ways that are best for them. The goal is not to focus on earthly wealth or status but to be content in the knowledge that God is enough for us.

1. CONTENTMENT IS LEARNED

Contentment doesn’t come naturally; it is something that must be learned.

a) Understanding the Source of Contentment

True contentment comes from trusting in God’s provision, not in worldly wealth or status (Philippians 4:12-13).

b) A Process of Growth

Just as Paul learned contentment through his experiences, we too must allow God to teach us how to be content in every situation (1 Timothy 6:6-8).

c) Contentment is an Attitude of the Heart

It starts in the heart and mind. When we choose to be thankful and satisfied with what we have, we begin to experience true contentment (Proverbs 30:8-9).

d) The Secret to Contentment is Christ

Paul was able to be content in every situation because he drew strength from Christ. This is the key to contentment, not in circumstances but in Christ (Philippians 4:13).

Biblical Example: The Apostle Paul, having faced persecution, imprisonment, and lack, still learned to be content and found his sufficiency in Christ (2 Corinthians 11:23-28).

2. CONTENTMENT IS A CHOICE

Contentment is a conscious decision to be satisfied with what God has given us.

a) Choosing to Focus on What We Have

Often, discontentment arises when we focus on what we don’t have. To live contentedly, we must focus on the blessings we already have (Matthew 6:25-34).

b) Resisting the Temptation to Compare

Comparison is the enemy of contentment. The moment we compare our lives to others, we invite discontent. Instead, we are called to be content with what God has entrusted to us (Hebrews 13:5).

c) Choosing Gratitude Over Greed

Contentment grows when we choose to thank God for what we have rather than desiring what we do not have (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

d) Relying on God’s Sufficiency

To be content, we must trust that God knows what is best for us and that He will provide for us in His time and way (Matthew 6:33).

Biblical Example: The Israelites, though blessed with daily provision in the wilderness, struggled with contentment. God gave them manna, yet they murmured and longed for more (Exodus 16).

3. CONTENTMENT IN TIMES OF LACK

Contentment is not only for times of abundance but also for times of need.

a) Trusting God in Times of Need

When we lack, it is easy to become anxious or worried. Contentment in times of lack involves trusting that God will provide as He promised (Philippians 4:12).

b) Being Satisfied in God Alone

Even when material needs are not met, we can find satisfaction in God’s presence and His promises (Psalm 23:1).

c) Learning to Be at Peace with Less

In times of scarcity, we must learn to live with less without becoming discontent. God’s grace is sufficient for us in all circumstances (2 Corinthians 12:9).

d) Focusing on Eternal Riches

True contentment comes from understanding that our worth is not found in material possessions but in our relationship with Christ and the eternal riches He offers (Matthew 6:19-21).