Choose Contentment Over False Contenders
We live in a society that is more resourced and privileged than any in history. Yet, that privilege can easily lead to a complaining posture. Wealth can paradoxically lead to an attitude of complaint and discontent.
When we focus on things, we can subtly start to believe that they will bring us happiness, identity or security. Once we have taken that bait, we can be drawn to attach our sense of self to those things and/or the “need” to get or maintain them. When we don’t have them – or when they don’t provide for
us as we thought they would - we become insecure and discontent.
The apostle Paul wrote to Timothy, “Godliness with contentment is great gain.” (1 Timothy 6:6) This statement is like a math equation: Godliness + Contentment = Great Gain. What, however, does it mean?
Walking in God’s ways, in a state of soul-contentment, is Great Gain. The great gain is walking with God in His ways. It is not tied to circumstance or resource. It is tied to God’s Kingdom – His person and His purposes.
The end of Hebrews 12 describes the judgment of God. This judgment is present now and it is coming in greater ways in the future. The judgment comes upon those things which are in opposition to God and His ways. It comes against the “false contenders” to God’s throne.
When God shakes and judges things, they are clearly separated from Him – eventually to be burned. When we attach ourselves to the things that God judges, we experience the separation and potentially the burning.
God often uses pressures, hardships and crises in this world to shake us free from our idolatry; our attachments to false comforts, providers and lords. When we experience shaking, it is always an opportunity to let go of everything that can be shaken - everything that is/will be judged - and turn to worship God in fresh ways. These are times to turn from false living and embrace deep intimacy with God and His purposes.
If you find yourself in a place of discontent, be honest with God and yourself:
- Express it to God!
- Step back and evaluate what you want. Are you looking for a contentment that is based on your circumstances, possessions or sense of control or are you looking for more of God and
His ways? - Slow down and clarify your priorities and affections around God and His care,
provision and direction for you.
This lays a solid foundation for contentment in Him. This contentment in God is the core of the Kingdom. It is the “great gain” that Paul promised to Timothy. Take a moment to declare your desired contentment in your relationship with God and His ways. It will do wonders for your soul.
~ Coach Tom
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