Godliness and Contentment

Scripture:
“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.” — 1Tim 6:6-8
 
Observation:
This scripture tells us the key to great gain is godliness paired with contentment. When we were born on this earth we had nothing, and when we die to go live in heaven we will take nothing with us. The apostle Paul is telling the believers to be content with their basic needs being met.
 
Application:
What a true word and reminder from Paul about how we should be living. As we are trying to sell our home and looking for a new home out in Clinton, we are working through the meaning of contentment. In this materialistic culture we are so tempted to keep up with our peers. This may be for some to spend too much money on a nice home, to overspend on designer clothes or a new vehicle that we can’t afford. I know that I cannot be godly in the least, if I am not content with what I’ve been blessed with.
 
Contentment is something I must continually strive towards, because my earthly, vain desires have a way of creeping back in, even with something so petty as seeing someone’s new i-phone. As Christians, we are called to be the example of contentment for unbelievers, but we seem to live just like the world most of the time, above our means that is. Jesus knew this would be hard for us, and gave us instructions to store up our treasures in heaven so our focus would remain on our heavenly goal. (Matt 6:19-21)
 
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for always providing for my needs. Every good gift comes from you. Forgive me for coveting my neighbor’s possessions, and renew my mind to the truth of your word. Help me as I focus on my heavenly treasures, to release any desires for earthly gain that I have buried in my heart. May I live a life worthy of my calling by remaining content in your provision, because I am focused on you, my heavenly Lord. Praises and thanks be to Your name, Jehovah Jireh.

— Jason Elam, worship pastor, Clinton campus