Contentment
Hebrews 13:5
1Timothy 6:6-10
1 Thessalonians 2:5
Phillipians 4:11-12
Madison Avenue has given many of us a bad case of the "wants". We have been sold the idea that we cannot be happy unless we have something that is newer, bigger, better, and shinier that what we already have. They have made us think that what they are selling will satisfy us and satisfy our deepest needs, but the fact is some are prisoner to this desire and drive for things. This desire robs us of our calling and ministry right where we are. Surveys show us that the primary reason for divorce is possessions and attitudes about money. (I have a cousin who appeared to be happily married until her father died leaving her a bunch of money. They divorced soon afterward.)
The Bible says very clearly that we are not to covet (Exodus 20:17). What this means is that God's people are to be satisfied with God's blessings and provisions and not compare with other people's blessings.
In the Hebrews 13:5 passage we are exhorted to be content, satisfied with what we have. I talk with Christians each week who tell me that they have been dealt a bad deal. "If I could just have his wife, his job, his church, her house, her kids, his situation, then I would be happy." But the devil is a lion and tries to convince us that change or something new brings contentment. What a big lie. Remember, the grass may be greener on the ‘other side' but you don't know their water bill.
The question is: What do you have?
You have Jesus. If you are a Christian you have the eternal God of all life living in you. Nothing is too difficult for HIM. Read Psalm 73:25-26 and Romans 8:31-39.
You have your church. The Family of God. You have other brothers and sisters to pray with, cry with, join hands with in ministry.
You have family. Proverbs 18:22, Psalm 127
You have friends. Proverbs 17:17
You have wisdom. Proverbs 3:13-14
You have satisfaction (Phillipians 4:11-12) if you are walking in the Spirit.
Now the big question is: How do we find satisfaction and contentment?
First, go to the Lord Jesus and tell him your sin; just agree with Him. Let Him meet your deepest needs. You were made for Him, not Him for you (Acts 17:27). You'll never deal with covetousness unless you give all you know of you to all you know of Him. Let go of this world with both hands and take hold of Him with both hands.Second, begin to cultivate a gratitude attitude. Begin by making a list of all your possessions and accomplishments. Review the list with the Lord in prayer, thanking Him for all His manifold blessings. Tell your spouse, children and grandchildren of the many ways God has prospered you and blessed you. Keep a scrapbook or some other creative way of reminder.
Third, learn to love people and not things. Rejoice in the successes of others. Remind yourself that another person's blessing is not your loss.
Fourth, make giving a top priority. I don't know of anything that will kill covetousness more quickly than learning to give.
