The other day, while I was talking with someone they mentioned they were content. Under my breath I said, “I’ve never been contented in my life.” Honestly, I didn’t want anyone to hear that comment. It just sort of came out, but this person being the person they are wouldn’t let that comment go, and he forced me to explain. I tried to use my political avoidance type speech, but he wouldn’t have it, so eventually I had to expound.
I know what the Bible has to say about contentment. I really do. Hebrews 13:5 Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have. 1 Timothy 6:6 Now there is great gain in godliness with contentment. . . But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content. Philippians 4:11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. This is just three quick little verses, but you can trust me on this - the Bible has a lot to say about contentment, and contentment is not my strong point.
I was not talking about nor currently writing about contentment with physical things. Honestly, I have lived with a lot, and I have lived with very little yet found life wonderful both ways. I’m talking about internal contentment in a psychological or sociological or maybe even a theological type thing. For instance, several weeks ago I was set to speak in a church, and its pastor told me he was looking forward to today, because the “house was going to be full - packed even.” A few days earlier another pastor showed me his sanctuary and described how many people would fit. Both times, the massive number that was outside those walls and would never come inside was very heavy on my mind. When I served a going and growing church in Florida and we baptized many every Sunday, the people on the streets that I passed daily bothered my soul. A church where I served in Alabama that was growing like a weed was never enough for me. God has given me 280 million people (280,000,000) to lead closer to Him, but it’s not enough. I lie awake a night thinking about them, and I just want more. I am not content. What is wrong with me? Why can't I just be content?
Blessings,
