Living A Life Of Contentment Series

LIVING A LIFE OF CONTENTMENT

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Philippians 4:11-13

Supporting Texts: 1 Timothy 6:6-8, Hebrews 13:5, Luke 12:15, Psalm 23:1, Ecclesiastes 5:10

INTRODUCTION:

Contentment is a rare and powerful virtue in today’s world, where people are constantly driven by the desire for more—more wealth, more recognition, and more possessions. The Scriptures, however, call us to live a life of contentment, not rooted in material accumulation, but in trust and satisfaction in God’s provision.

True contentment is not complacency, nor is it the absence of ambition. Rather, it is the ability to remain peaceful, thankful, and joyful regardless of circumstances. It flows from knowing that God is our source and that He is faithful to meet our needs.

Paul’s testimony in Philippians 4 shows that contentment is a learned grace. Whether in lack or abundance, in hardship or comfort, he had discovered the secret of being content: Christ's strength. This message calls us to cultivate this same mindset, so we can live free from greed, anxiety, and comparison.

1. UNDERSTAND THAT CONTENTMENT IS A SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINE

Contentment does not happen naturally; it must be cultivated by intentional trust in God.

a) Philippians 4:11–13 – Paul Learned to Be Content in All Circumstances

Contentment is a process of growth, not an automatic response to life.

b) 1 Timothy 6:6–8 – Godliness with Contentment Is Great Gain

Spiritual maturity includes learning to be satisfied with the essentials.

c) Ecclesiastes 5:10 – The Love of Money Never Satisfies

Greed is a trap that robs people of peace and joy.

d) Luke 12:15 – Life Does Not Consist in the Abundance of Possessions

Your worth is not measured by what you own, but by your relationship with God.

Biblical Example: The Shunammite woman displayed great contentment and gratitude, even when she lacked a child (2 Kings 4:8–17).

2. TRUST GOD AS YOUR SOURCE AND SHEPHERD

Contentment thrives where there is a strong faith in God's provision and care.

a) Psalm 23:1 – The Lord Is My Shepherd, I Shall Not Want

God’s sufficiency should give you rest from worry and covetousness.

b) Matthew 6:31–33 – Seek First the Kingdom, and God Will Provide

When God is first, provision follows.

c) Hebrews 13:5 – Be Content with What You Have; God Will Never Leave You

Security is not found in things, but in God’s abiding presence.

d) James 1:17 – Every Good Gift Comes from God

Recognise every blessing as a gift from a faithful Father.

Biblical Example: Elijah was fed by ravens and cared for during famine, showing God's sufficiency (1 Kings 17:1–16).

3. AVOID COMPARISON AND CULTIVATE GRATITUDE

Comparison kills contentment, but gratitude nurtures it.

a) 2 Corinthians 10:12 – Comparing Ourselves with Others Is Unwise

Each person’s journey is unique—don’t measure your worth by others' success.

b) 1 Thessalonians 5:18 – In Everything Give Thanks

Gratitude opens your eyes to see what God is doing in your life.

c) Philippians 2:14 – Do All Things Without Complaining

Complaining fuels discontent; thanksgiving fuels peace.

d) Colossians 3:15 – Let the Peace of God Rule in Your Heart and Be Thankful

Gratitude shifts your focus from what’s missing to what’s already given.

Biblical Example: Jesus gave thanks for five loaves and two fish, and it multiplied (John 6:11).

4. FOCUS ON ETERNAL VALUES, NOT EARTHLY GAIN

A contented heart is anchored in eternal priorities.

a) Colossians 3:2 – Set Your Mind on Things Above, Not on Earth

What you focus on determines your peace and satisfaction.

b) Matthew 6:19–21 – Store Up Treasures in Heaven

Earthly possessions are temporary, but eternal riches last forever.

c) Proverbs 23:4–5 – Don’t Wear Yourself Out to Get Rich

Pursue purpose, not pressure, and peace instead of possessions.

d) Romans 8:18 – Present Sufferings Are Nothing Compared to Future Glory

Hope in eternity enables you to endure and rejoice today.

Biblical Example: Moses forsook the treasures of Egypt for the eternal reward (Hebrews 11:24–26).

CONCLUSION:

Living a life of contentment is not denying your needs or dreams—it is trusting God with your journey. It means choosing peace over pressure, gratitude over greed, and trust over anxiety. A contented heart is a heart at rest, knowing that God is in control and always good.

As believers, we are called to live differently in a world obsessed with more. Let your contentment be a testimony of your faith in God. When you rest in His promises and find joy in His presence, your life becomes a beacon of stability, peace, and joy.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, teach me to be content in all seasons of life.

2. Father, help me to trust You fully as my Shepherd and Provider.

3. Deliver me from the spirit of comparison and covetousness.

4. Fill my heart with gratitude for what You’ve already done.

5. Help me to set my affections on eternal treasures, not earthly gain.