Cultivate Contentment
ICS Daily Devotions
1 Timothy 6:6-10 (NJKV) Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 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, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
The values that we are brought up with shape us. As such, parents should ensure they pass on the right values to their children. If you can afford to do so, having a parent stay at home during the children’s formative years always pays off in the long run because there will be a positive voice of influence in their lives.
Parents often desire their children to make it to the best universities. However, when this becomes the sole objective, we instil the wrong values in them and allow their accomplishments to define their identity. When they fail, they will think they are worthless and become depressed and suicidal. All parents want their children to have a promising future, but is it only to be wealthy, successful, and well-accomplished? As Christians, we should also want them to be blessed holistically by walking with God, having good interpersonal relationships, and prospering fully.
Many corporate people live under high stress and discontentment over the lack of promotion and high rise. Their spouses can also become discontented by comparing themselves with others. To pursue what they have lost, some even get out of a marriage to marry someone more successful, leading to many sorrows.
Life can be much simpler, as it all depends on the lifestyle we choose. Maintaining a lifestyle that we can no longer afford is stressful. The key to reducing stress is to adjust and simplify our lives. However, pride prevents many families from making necessary adjustments.
Philippians 4:11-13 (NKJV) Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everything and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
The Apostle Paul, when he was known as Saul, was zealous in persecuting the church. He lived a privileged life as a member of the Pharisees, but everything changed after his encounter with God. He faced persecution and imprisonment. However, God’s grace was sufficient for him, and he was well cared for by the believers. He learned to be content in whatever state he found himself. We, too, can cultivate contentment in our lives by ensuring that our identity is rooted in Christ rather than in worldly accomplishments.
Sermon Series: Hopefully Contented
