Attitude of Contentment

Posted on Sept. 18, 2024, 10:05 a.m. by Rev. Shobayo Kayode The Gospel Study Centre

Attitude of contentment can be described as the one that keeps the mind in condition of peace without complaint, but with moderate degree of happiness in every situation of life. The Webster dictionary describes ‘Content’ as rest or quietness of the mind in the present condition, satisfaction which holds the mind in peace, restraining complaint, opposition or further desire, and often implying a moderate degree of happiness. Contentment is an act of expressing gratitude. The Bible teaches that godliness with contentment is great gain, and advises that one’s conduct should be without covetousness, but be content with such things as one have. Attitude of contentment means having the courage to do without all the frills of life that can push one into sin of covetousness, but to be thankful and express satisfaction to what God has provided for that moment. Contentment is one of the secrets of happiness and the joy of the Lord. It shows complete reliance on the providence of God. To be contented is not suggesting lack of ambition or not wanting to succeed or do better things. Or that God does not want us to be rich or wealthy. God actually wants us to have wealth. The scripture says, “And you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to make wealth” (Deut.8:18) God’s word encourages one to get riches and wealth that one may overcome frustration over the futility of life. “As for every man God has given riches and wealth, and given him power to eat of it, to receive his heritage and rejoice in his labor- this is the gift of God.” (Ecclesiastes.5:19) Much as God gives power to make wealth, He does not approve insatiable desire for more and more, because it does not worth it. “He who loves silver will not be satisfied with silver. Nor he who loves abundance, with increase. This also is vanity” (Ecclesiastes.5:10) The more one struggles to acquire more, and increase in wealth and material gain, the more he searches for satisfaction. It means increasing income never brings satisfaction, only added anxiety. Brethren, the secret to be content is to learn to enjoy the things you have, rather than finding displeasure in what you do not have. Apostle Paul says, “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. Everywhere and in all things, I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need” (Phil.4:11-12) We accept things as they are with happiness and complete reliance on the providence of God. In summary, “Let your conduct be without covetousness, be content with such things as ye have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Heb.13:5) Evangelism Tell someone about the providence of our Lord Jesus Christ today. That someone can only be a partaker of the God’s providence by having faith in Jesus Christ. Rev. Shobayo Kayode The Gospel Study Centre