We all struggle with the “c” word. Now that I have your attention, the word I’m referencing is contentment. It’s a word that I’ve come to embrace more and more during this season. This year started with loads of discontentment for me. My job was unbearable. Months of pent up aggravation reached its peak with the frustration showing up in unhealthy ways. I was chronically late and occasionally irritable towards coworkers. Then there was the issue of my neighborhood. I tired of the small town scene with its limited amenities. Eagerness to change setting and start anew built up within. In comes March with a novel virus and statewide lock-down, essentially putting a halt to my plans.
As time passed, I felt powerless to change my situation. Tensions grew at work as a result of the virus and implementation of new policies and procedures. I adjusted to new work environments and coworkers while learning the nuances of an unknown virus. In addition, I became increasingly aware of how small my city was truly since travel was restricted and events cancelled in other areas. I prayed (and sometimes cried out) for change. Instead, I was given the opportunity to change my perspective. God challenged me to be content in my present state.
So, what is contentment? Merriam-Webster defines contentment as “feeling or showing satisfaction with one’s possessions, status, or situation”. Synonyms include “gladness, delight, and enjoyment”. Paul is one of the best Biblical examples of contentment. He was beaten, imprisoned, shipwrecked, and persecuted throughout various periods of his life. In Philippians, he details the secret of his contentment. It lies in Jesus Christ. How many times has this verse been taken out of context? Its meaning is so much deeper than simply saying, “I can do all things through Christ”. This verse is meant to draw our attention to the Source of our strength. Jesus makes it possible to survive any unbearable situation. But there’s more! Not only can we outlast anything that comes our way, but we can do so with contentment (joy, gladness, delight). The lens in which we see our circumstance changes to a different viewpoint. Instead of dreading my current situation, I can see it as an opportunity to be a light to those I come in contact. When things get really hard, I can lean into Christ who will help me make it through the day.
In what areas of your life can you practice contentment? Let me assure you that I’ve not mastered this art. I wanted to encourage you as we walk this journey out together. The situation may not change but your perspective can change. Draw your strength from Christ. In Him, we can be content no matter what life throws at us. We can rest assure that He is always with us. No matter what we have the victory in Him. Doesn’t that fact make you smile?
Be encouraged! 😊
Scripture References: Philippians 4:11-13 (NLT) “Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.”
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