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).
Biblical Example: The widow who gave her two mites was content with what she had, and Jesus commended her for her trust in God’s provision (Mark 12:41-44).
4. CONTENTMENT IN TIMES OF ABUNDANCE
Abundance does not guarantee contentment; it is possible to be discontent even when we have much.
a) Guarding Against Greed
Having more can lead to a greater desire for more. Contentment in abundance involves guarding our hearts against greed and understanding that true joy comes from God, not possessions (Luke 12:15).
b) Recognizing the Temptation of Excess
Excess can cloud our judgment and distract us from God. True contentment in abundance means keeping our priorities right—seeking first the kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33).
c) Being Generous with What We Have
A content person is generous, understanding that everything they have is a gift from God and is to be used for His glory (1 Timothy 6:17-19).
d) Finding Joy in Simplicity
Contentment in abundance often involves embracing simplicity. We do not need excess to find joy in life when our focus is on Christ (Philippians 4:12-13).
Biblical Example: Solomon, despite his immense wealth and wisdom, recognized that without God, all his wealth was meaningless. He said, “Vanity of vanities, all is vanity” (Ecclesiastes 1:2).
5. THE FRUIT OF CONTENTMENT
Living with contentment brings peace, joy, and stability.
a) Peace in All Circumstances
Contentment results in peace, as we stop striving for what we don’t have and rest in the assurance that God is in control (Philippians 4:6-7).
b) Joy Regardless of Circumstance
Contentment brings joy, even in difficult circumstances, because we are satisfied with what God provides, knowing He is with us (Romans 15:13).
c) Freedom from Anxiety
A content heart is free from anxiety because we trust God with our needs and our future (Philippians 4:6-7).
d) Stability in Our Walk with God
Contentment allows us to walk steadily with God, not shaken by the ups and downs of life (Hebrews 13:5-6).
Biblical Example: Paul, despite facing imprisonment, hunger, and persecution, found joy and peace through contentment in Christ (2 Corinthians 11:23-28).
CONCLUSION:
Contentment is a key aspect of the Christian life. It is not a passive state but an active decision to trust God’s provision and find joy in what He has already given us. Whether in abundance or in lack, contentment is learned through relationship with Christ, who is our ultimate source of sufficiency.
Living with contentment leads to a peaceful heart, a joyful spirit, and a life that honors God. When we learn to be content, we can focus more on serving others and pursuing God’s will for our lives, rather than constantly striving for more.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me to find contentment in all circumstances, knowing that You are my provider.
2. Father, I release all discontentment in my heart and choose to trust in Your perfect timing and provision.
3. Lord, teach me to be satisfied with what I have and to focus on Your eternal blessings.
4. I pray for freedom from greed and anxiety, that I may walk in peace and joy.
5. Lord, help me to be generous with all that You have given me, using it for Your glory.
