Wikipedia says, “Contentment is a mental or emotional state of satisfaction drawn from being at ease in one’s situation, body and mind.”
In his book, Satisfied, Jeff Manion defines contentment. “Contentment is the cultivation of a satisfied heart. It is the discipline of being fully alive to God and to others whatever our material circumstances. Contentment is not achieved through getting everything we want but by training the heart to experience full joy and deep peace even when we don’t have what we want.”
The Apostle Paul put it this way, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any situation whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:11b-13)
As Christians, contentment is a choice that we make with God’s help. No matter where we are or what our circumstances we can be at peace because we know that our faithful God is with us. We can learn to be content as we remind ourselves of the many blessings we have even if we don’t have everything we want. We can learn that our self-worth does not come from anything we do or have, but from God who created us good. We can learn what is really important as we serve Christ and others in the world. We can learn contentment as we learn to share what we have with others and discover joy in generosity.
With God’s help we can make the best out of any situation and find joy and peace in it. I pray it will be so for you.
In Christ’s love,
Pastor Anne