What does it mean to be content? In a world where we are driven to want more and more; to never be satisfied with what we have, it is a difficult concept to ever embrace. After all, whatever car, boat, or house we have, we always seem to want something different, bigger, and better.
Webster defines contentment as “happy enough with what one has or is. Not desiring something more different. The absence of the need to strain and pull to get ahead. Indifference to position, status, or possession.” The Amplified Version of the Bible defines contentment as “satisfied to the point that one is neither disturbed or disquieted. The product of gratitude.”
Few things affect our lives like a grateful spirit. We typically have so much more than we actually need that we are blinded by our abundance. We take our health, freedom, prosperity, and possessions for granted. And, we are ungrateful. In a time and place where, in our culture, we have more of everything than the rest of the world, we fail to express a spirit of gratitude to those around us who help us and to God who provides it.
More than likely you are blessed beyond your basic needs. You probably want more of what you have and definitely more of what you do not have, but fail to recognize that you have so much that money cannot buy. You have the love and appreciation of others. You have a family. You have food, shelter, clothing, and transportation. You have a job. Yet you still remain ungrateful!!
John D. Rockefeller, an American industrialist who, in 1870, founded Standard Oil was once asked how much money it would take for him to be really satisfied. He answered, “Just a little bit more.” What is it that will truly bring you contentment?
“Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to get along happily whether I have much or little. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need.” Philippians 4:11-13