As we walk through this life, we may have a tendency to breeze past thoughts of discontentment that subtly enter our minds, leaving us without peace in our current circumstances. Are you prone to covet people’s material items, being discontent with what God has given you (1 John 2:15)? Have you become discontent with your physical appearance as you compare yourself with others? Maybe you are frustrated that you are not meeting your goals or feeling that your plan or agenda is taking too long. Discontentment over an issue can even cause quarrels and fights among you and another person (James 4:1-2). How does discontentment manifest in your life? Whatever the root of discontentment, the Bible tells us that being content while displaying godliness is great gain (1 Timothy 6:6). Contentment is not something we should view as just enduring a circumstance, we need to view it as a positive, because in reality, we are gaining something. When we switch our thought patterns to being content and examine our hearts, accepting the truth of the Word, we will gain such character attributes as patience, gratefulness, and joy. We can trust God with what circumstances he has given us, knowing that He is the Author of our circumstance. This fact should bring us to the throne room with praise and thanksgiving, further deepening our relationship with Him. Through the many ways that God is growing us up, he asks us to learn to be content whatever the circumstance (Philippians 4:11-13). Being content means we are pursuing righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, and gentleness (1 Timothy 7-11). At some point, we all struggle with contentment, but what an awesome promise God has given us that contentment will produce great gain! Ask God to work contentment within you. By doing so, you will bring blessing into your life, the lives of others, and bless God at the same time.
Prayer
Gracious Father. Thank you for your patient guidance in my life. I ask you to reveal to me areas of my life where I am discontent and dig up the sin of ungratefulness that has taken root in my heart. Enable me to continually lean on you to help me stand firm on the foundation of faith. Prompt my mouth and heart to be full of praise to you as I am reassured that you are working all things together for my good and your glory (Romans 8:28).