Contentment

Contentment

People long to possess as much as possible in this world, and the more they get, the more they want; they will not be satisfied. That this is a fact in the world does not amaze us, but it is truly sad that those who call themselves “Christian” also have such an utterly twisted view of life and follow the course of this world.

They are “corrupt in their minds and are destitute of the truth, supposing that godliness is a means of gain.” 1 Tim. 6:5.

In our days, it seems as if the majority have never had any knowledge of the truth or the way of truth. But everyone who knows the truth views this matter of acquiring more of this world’s goods in a completely different light, because for them the Word is a guide that shows the way to God’s rest and joy.

“But godliness with contentment is great gain.” 1 Tim. 6:6 [Emphasis added]. Therefore, it is not having many possessions or earning a high salary that is great gain, but, godliness with contentment.

God’s Word is amazing! It is mighty to save through obedience and faithfulness, and it is never wrong but delivers on all its promises.

In contrast to seeking much and striving to possess much of this world’s goods, the Word shows us another way, namely, to be glad and content with as little as possible. This, rather than the other, is truly great gain.

Jesus says, “Therefore, do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” Matt. 6:31-33. When we believe, this becomes a blessed guideline for us. It is far more blessed to enjoy what we receive from the Lord’s hand than what we, as mere mortals, have gathered because we were covetous.

Who has not heard that we are to seek God’s kingdom and His righteousness and then all these things will be added to us? But who has believed it and acted accordingly and has not grown weary? What is it that pleases us first and foremost; is it spiritual gain or earthly gain? We are properly enlightened in Philippians 3:8. In the middle of the verse it says, “For whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ . . . .” Also in Psalm 15:4 the last sentence: “He who swears to his own hurt and does not change . . . .” This is something we can understand, and also have sufficient opportunity to choose in life. The question is: What do you choose? Do you choose contentment with joy or to enjoy life’s pleasures on a natural level?

When we read 1 Timothy 6:7-11, we are again informed as to what is for our benefit. “And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, from which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, sanctification, faith, love, patience, meekness.”

Indeed, we ought to pay heed to this if we want to be with Jesus when He returns. We must take it to heart and act on it so we can be examples for others, showing them the right way.

For if your brother is grieved because of your delicious food or your luxurious home or your vain clothing, you are no longer walking in love. Do not destroy with your food—your worldly sense—the one for whom Christ died. Rom. 14:15.

We must not be afraid of the light but rather seek the light which can save us and give us what we need in this life.

If you have more than enough, you have a blessed guideline in 1 Timothy 6:17-19. Do it in faith and you will be blessed, and you will rejoice over it for time and eternity.