I was reading about contentment this morning so that is where my mind keeps resting. In our weaknesses, trials, shortcomings...this is where God's strength is made perfect. A battle fought in our own power will not glorify God. A battle fought leaning solely on His strength, that is a battle won. So in whatever state we find ourselves, whether a state of weakness, a state of hardships, a state of spiritual warfare it is important that we practice contentment, knowing full well that it is through these things that God can show us His perfect strength.
"My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness."
II Corinthians 12:9
Contentment. It seems our contentment can be attacked from all sides if we are not guarding it. There is something to be said about simplicity, about the basics, about just loving what you have. Comparison is the thief of joy. Comparison can lead to envy which can lead to covetousness and before you know it, you're not content anymore. This is simple contentment, the kind that is content with surface things. But there is a deeper contentment, one that lives in a soul's walk with God, knowing that He is enough, that He is your all in all. True, soul contentment that will feed the surface contentment because it is never about having things, it is about the state of your heart.
It is never about having things, it is about the state of your heart.
"Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee."
Hebrews 13:5
"Godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out."
I Timothy 6:6-7
Contentment is truly key. My high school band motto was this: attitude is everything. I think that's in the same vein as this. Things will be what you decide to make them. If that's acceptable and content, then they'll be good. If you chose comparison and frustration, then you'll never be happy.
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