The Bible has a lot to say about being content.
It’s too easy to look at our lives and focus on our lack. To get stuck on everything that other have and to be hyper aware of what we don’t have. We spend too much time comparing ourselves to others. That comparison negatively affects us mentally and emotionally; it can even affect us physically.
In the Bible, Paul spoke of his ability to be content no matter what circumstance he was in.
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. Philippians 4:12-13
He knew what it was to live in abundance and He also experienced some of the lowest lows a human can go through. He recognized that he couldn’t do it in His own strength, but that the story was so different when he put his trust and confidence in God.
God was his source for everything.
With that awareness and confidence, He could handle anything that came his way.
Contentment is something that happens inside of us and has nothing to do with our situations, our circumstances, our needs; or our lack. It’s a peace and confidence that comes when you place your trust in God’s provision and His sovereignty in your life.
Contentment is a peace and confidence that comes when you place your trust in God's provision and His sovereignty in your life.
It comes when you lay down your ideas of self-sufficiency and live in His sufficiency; knowing that there’s nothing you can do to earn it or make it happen, but that His grace and mercy are gifts that He gives out of His Great Love for you.
If contentment is something you are struggling with here are a few practical things that you can do to shift your focus.
Purposefully pursue an awareness of the Father’s goodness and provision
Prioritize your relationship with the Father
Reflect on the Blessings in your life
Rely on the Father to lead and guide every decision you make.
He is a good Father who provides for all you need. Spend time with Him and read your Bible; and in doing so, you will learn more and more about His character, His truths and His promises. Focus on what He has blessed you with and be thankful.
Gratitude has been scientifically proven to affect our outlook on life. Science has proven what the Bible has said for years - Be thankful in ALL things. Not just some…ALL THINGS! Gratitude rewires your brain to see the blessings that you do have.
As you move through your day, listen to what the Father is saying and do it. Ask Him questions. Communicate with Him. He’s always speaking and He wants whats best for you. Listen and follow what He says. He will lead and guide you.
If you are struggling with being discontent, and you want to trust in the Father in every area of your life but you're unsure where to start, here's a prayer for you.
Father, I am struggling to be content. Would you please help my unbelief? Would you forgive me for the times that I have placed my trust in myself or in others? I choose to put my trust in You and You alone. You are my provider. You are my strength. You are everything that I need. Help me to see your provision in every aspect of my life; and to shift my focus from what I don’t have, to what you have given me. I want to live in your peace; confident of your sovereignty in my life. Help me to hear your voice and to know your ways and to do what you ask me. I commit my life to you. Amen.
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