Covetousness vs Contentment 4

Although we planned to move to a new topic this week, I thought it necessary to close out this series with one more post.

We have discussed the dangers of covetousness and greed, but have not dealt much with what it means to be content. Contentment can seem like a relative thing to some, but the Bible clearly says,

6) Now godliness with contentment is great gain. 7) For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8) And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. 1Timothy 6:6-8

Most likely, everyone reading this blog fits this category. Yet, we often find ourselves wanting more and ungrateful for the many “additional” things God has blessed us with.

Again, as shared previously, scripture clearly shows us the Father wants to bless us with good things.

Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 1 Timothy 6:17

You might think, “which is it?” “Contentment” or “richly all things to enjoy?” Paul addresses them both in the same letter to his son in the faith, Timothy. He makes it clear that we should be content with the basic necessities of life, but also adds how the Father freely blesses us richly with all things to enjoy.

Paul learned this lesson over time. He related this to the church at Philippi.

10) But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity. 11) Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content:

12) 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. 13) I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:10-13

This is why Paul could write to Timothy to warn the disciples to avoid focusing on becoming rich, but to seek after godliness and contentment. He had lived it, and knew from experiential knowledge and revelation from the Lord contentment with godly living was the key to true success in life.

Just look at Hollywood personalities or professional athletes. Many who are in these fields are miserable and troubled souls. They appear to have everything but are drug addicts, alcoholic or trapped in other destructive lifestyles. It is primarily because they are not content with their money and fame, and nor have Christ at the center of their lives.

Jesus taught us to pray for “daily bread” not our retirement. Not that it’s a sin to pray for future needs, but if we are always focused and worried about our future and not resting daily in God’s provision, we will never enjoy His peace or have godly contentment.

Is it wrong to plan for the future? Absolutely not! Joseph interpreted Pharaoh's dream about a famine coming to Egypt and gave him a strategic plan that would save the nation from starving. It meant storing up during the good years, so there would be plenty during the lean years of famine (Genesis 41).

Let us seek to be  content, while being thankful for the extra things He does to bless our lives, whether it is a washer and dryer, an automobile, a kitchen appliance or an abundance of other things we often take for granted.

New subject next time—until then, may God our Heavenly Father and the Lord Jesus Christ richly bless and keep you.

James Brown

CST 05/02/2025