Learn To Be Content
Introduction;
The Quaker’s offer, An old wise Quaker farmer posted this sing on his best piece of property, “This land will be given to the first truly satisfied person who passes this way.” No sooner than the sign was put a person comes to his door. The man states that he is a truly satisfied man. He was satisfied with his wife, job and home. So he thought he qualified to receive the land. The Quaker answers him, “Pray tell me, friend, if thou art a completely satisfied man, why dost thou want my land?”
Text; Philippians 4:10-12
I. What is Contentment?
A. Bible dictionary definition; “A state of mind in which one’s desires are confined to his lot whatever it may be.”
B. Greek word “autarkes” means; self-sufficient, having enough, not dependent on others
C. Jeremiah Burrough’s book (The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment) states;
“Christian contentment is that sweet, inward quiet, gracious frame of spirit, which freely submits to and delights in God’s wise and fatherly disposal in every condition.”
II. Learn What Doesn’t Bring Contentment
A. Prosperity, Apostle Paul’s humble means and prosperity
Professor David Myer’s study of the 49 wealthiest people in America as listed in Forbs magazine, most where no happier than the average American, 37% where less happy than the average person.
B. Possessions
1. The word of Christ, (Luke 12:15)
“And He said to them, “Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed, for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions.”
2. American materialism
According to the Self Storage Association, 1,875,000,000 square feet of personal storage is being use in U.S.A., in 40,000 facilities. 1in 11 own or rents personal storage. This is an increase of 75% from 1995
C. Pleasant Circumstance
D. Positions or power
E. Popularity
III. Learn to Trust in God’s Providence
A. Really get to know God
1. Salvation 2. Personal walk 3. Know Him as a loving and compassionate God
B. Learn God’s Ways
1. God uses both bad and good circumstances
2. God can work miracles or helping us through the problem
C. Learn about God’s provision
Where are you looking to find contentment?
Are you seeking what the world offers, prosperity, possessions, position, prestige, popularity?
Only God Can Fully Satisfy!
