Contentment

In a society where most everyone is seeking bigger and better “everything”, contentment is a character trait often lacking. I pray my children, grandchildren, and I will excel in contentment. In my life, few other traits have given me as much peace as learning to be truly content. As a nation, we are fortunately blessed with more than most of the world’s residents. Yet, depression and suicide rates escalate. For many, never learning the art of being content, no matter life’s circumstances, drives them to unending discouragement and disappointment.

One might ask, “What exactly does it mean to be content?” Easton’s 1897 Bible Dictionary defines contentment as, “a state of mind in which ones’ desires are confined to his lot whatever it may be…” Contentment truly is a state of mind for each of us. We CHOOSE whether or not we want to be happy and content with the deck of cards we are dealt called life. Conversely, we also can choose to be miserable and melancholic with the exact same life circumstances. It’s our choice!

Easton’s commentary continues to expound on contentment with these thoughts: “Contentment arises from the inward disposition, and is the offspring of humility, and of the greatness of the divine promises and our own unworthiness.” Something deep within our souls and spirits decides if we are going to select the path of contentment or if we are going to be miserably unhappy and ungrateful for what we have been given, what we have achieved, and what comprises our lives.

Humility plays an integral role in achieving contentment. If one is haughty and never humble in actions and words, contentment is bound to be a far-reaching goal. If one seeks a better home or car than his neighbors. Or if wearing name-brand clothes dominates one’s thoughts, contentment is going to be difficult to attain. For just as soon as one believes he has a better car than his neighbor, the neighbor will purchase an even better vehicle. Pride and a covetous attitude often displace contentment.

The apostle Paul wrote in Philippians 4:11, “…I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” Paul suffered unlike most people can imagine. Yet, he had learned and mastered the art of being content no matter the circumstances in his life. Circumstances are often fleeting, so to allow circumstances to deprive you of contentment is foolishness. In life’s most difficult circumstances and challenges, there is the capability to embrace contentment and joy. Consider this challenge today as it could change your life forever: learn to be content no matter what your circumstances are in this life.