Cultivating Contentment

“Now godliness with contentment is great gain.”

1 Timothy 6:6

Why can contentment seem so elusive? Paul was able to declare in Philippians 4:11b,

“…I have learned in whatever state I am,

to be content…” 

Seriously? Yes! Charles Spurgeon highlighted the word “learned.” This is not something that flows from humans naturally. He used the example that just as weeds don’t have to be cultivated, they just naturally come up – discontentment and complaining flow naturally from our flesh nature. Beautiful flowers and plants for food often have to be cultivated with purpose and effort. Contentment is that for us spiritually. It takes self control and effort to learn it.

I think it’s like the days I decide I’m not going to have chocolate. Clearly, all I think about that day is chocolate. The key is our focus.

Philippians 2:13-16a says,

“Do all things without murmuring and disputing,

that you may become blameless and harmless,

children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation,

among whom you shine as lights in the world,

holding fast the word of life…”  

The answer is not to focus on “not complaining.” Do I trust in His sovereignty or not? He is making all things beautiful in its time. If I will obey Him and remain focused on God and His Kingdom throughout my day, the effort (privilege) of praise and thanksgiving will choke out the weeds of discontent and grumbling. And I will grow in my learning to be content in all things. Any time grumbling or complaining pops up, it’s an indicator light that I need to repent and make some corrections.

Lord, be our focus as You cultivate pure hearts in Your children who are lights shining on You in this world.