Contentment And Commitment

Note: This is a previous devotion from last year I thought I would share again

1 Timothy 6:6-11

One of the things that I have heard people talk about the most during this crises and shut down is the new commitments that they are going to make when we get back to normal or at least a new normal. By not being able to go out to eat, shop at department stores, go to gyms, or movie theaters, we have learned to become content again with the simple things in life. Our yards look better, projects are being done, and families are spending time together. Most of all people are seeking the Lord and talking to Him and about Him more than ever.

Looking at our present situation the words of Paul to Timothy resonate with us now more than ever. He told him that “Godliness with contentment is great gain.” In other words Paul stresses that true contentment is found in having a relationship with God and living it in a godly manner. Contentment is defined as a state of happiness or satisfaction. Many generations of Americans have been taught that happiness comes from “things” so therefore the philosophy of “Materialism” (material possessions and physical comfort instead of spiritual values) has been promoted and practiced amongst us for years. But in a rare situation like we’re in, we find that the most important thing is relationships.

A relationship with God and with one another is where true contentment can be found. We are designed for it, we crave it, and when replaced material by things we never experience true happiness and satisfaction. Living for God day by day is the only way we can lay our head down in peace and feel as though we have lived purposely.

But contentment can only come from commitment. Paul said to flee youthful lust and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, and meekness. Unlike the natural craving for relationship, these qualities are not natural to us and must be sought for and found only in our commitment to follow Jesus Christ.

So I want to encourage you to commit your ways (Psalms 37:5) and your works (Proverbs 16:3) unto the Lord and keep in mind the old Hymn we sing:

“Trust and obey, for there is no other way to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.”

Pastor Robby