Here’s my disclaimer. I am in no way a scholar learned Bible student. My only qualification to understanding and applying God’s word comes from His work in my life through His Holy Spirit. Therefore, what I share in this blog, in the Bible studies I help to lead, and in the retreats which I’ve had the pleasure of speaking, is from a heart that is devoted to following my Lord and Savior in all things. My efforts to understand God’s truth take me to several different resources that help my limited knowledge. I am thankful God has given me a passion to communicate His love and many avenues to express the urgent need we have for His gift of salvation.
Sometimes, I wish I had a more formal education in Biblical studies but, alas, that brings me to one of the words that has been on my heart.
Contentment – What does it mean?
Php 4:11-12 Not that I speak from want; for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.
Let’s think opposites.
Want – Have
Content – Discontent, Dissatisfied
Are we able to change our circumstances? In many ways, yes. But do we want to or should we? We have the freedom to make many of our own choices. This is fun, it allows for individual likes and dislikes. But, think of those things that you are unable to change. For instance, I cannot change my age! A few years ago I was surprised to find out I was actually a year older than I realized – a true, albeit concerning, story that may cause you to question my mental status! I may be able to change my appearance to look younger but the numbers are what they are.
On a more serious note, many individuals are presented with physical challenges that are beyond their control. Change in these cases is not an option so management and satisfaction with the way things are becomes the normal. Think also of the number of people who find themselves placed in a geographical area that perhaps is not their primary choice. But it is a necessity because of employment or cost of living. In that case, it is well to accept where you are and be thankful for the opportunity to provide an income.
I grew up near the foothills of the San Bernardino mountain range. My teenage years were spent hiking on mountain trails just a half-hour away or driving to the beach with friends, equally as convenient. Later on, circumstances and choices led me to a different location.
I now live in the high desert. It has been my home for over thirty years. It is hard for many people, including myself, to find the beauty in the Joshua trees, tumble weeds, dry winds, and hot summers. Yet, it grows on you. I struggle with the lack of green, beautiful tall trees, natural woods, and what many would consider to be a more idyllic setting.
When we visit the northeast coast where one of our sons lives with his family, we enjoy the beauty that surrounds us as we walk through the Pennypack Trail just a few minutes away. It has always amazed me that everything is green and there are no automatic sprinkler systems except nature! But, there is a downside. Humidity and mosquitos!
So, what to do, if anything? I can choose to be discontent with what I don’t have or content with what I do have. I choose to be satisfied where God has placed me. Is this always easy? Heck no! My perfect world would have all my adult children and grandchildren living within a close radius of one another. My ideal setting would be for everyone to have employment that would provide well for their families yet grant time off for getting together. My preference would be to have a guarantee that all those I love would be called by God and live for Him.
It seems humans are wired to want what they don’t have, doesn’t it?! This begins early in life. Just spend a few minutes with small children wanting the same toy – often the toy that has been neglected until another child shows interest.
If we look back to our scripture in Philippians, the concentration is on becoming satisfied with whatever we have, wherever we are and with anything God has allowed into our lives. Paul emphasizes that he has learned to be content. This sounds like a choice. A conditioned response acquired over time. The more I am aware of God and who He is, the more I can sincerely say I want His plan. Why? It’s better than mine! It’s perfect.
So I will find beauty in the desert. When I’m missing my kids who live across the country and when I’m tired of the dry landscape surrounding me, I will thank God for the winds that provide clear blue skies. I will thank God for technology and the opportunity to FaceTime. I will appreciate the open land that surrounds me. The beautiful, color-filled sunsets. The occasional snow cover glistening on the Joshua trees.
Continue on for more study on contentment.
