Bible Reading: Jeremiah 9, 10, 11; 1 Timothy 6
“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out” 1 Timothy 6:6-7 (KJV)
The word ‘contentment‘ is our key word in today’s missive. A clear understanding of its literally meaning will help us locate the spiritual domain of the two verses above. The import of the above scriptures can be easily received by the elucidation of the literal and spiritual meaning of the word contentment. The English dictionary define contentment as follows:- 1. The state or degree of being contented or satisfied. 2. The neurophysiological experience of satisfaction and being at ease in one’s situation, body, and/or mind. We can conclude the contentment is a state of satisfaction and being at ease in one’s situation per time.
The bible says that a combination of godliness and contentment is great gain. In other words, a lifestyle of practising virtue and avoiding sin coupled with having satisfaction and being at ease of one’s situation per time is great gain. Why is it a great gain? It produces a virtue that frustrates inordinate ambition. It enhances a peaceful living divorced of restlessness. It is an enriching and healthy lifestyle that can contribute to longevity. It places limitation to unnecessary hassling which most times affects one’s health and life negatively.
People have erroneously equated contentment as being an unambitious attitude. In our living, contentment stems from the understanding that we brought nothing into this world and we will carry nothing out. Most people have wasted their life in pursuing after riches in such a restless manner they forgot to observe some level of rest that the body need to function properly, leading to breakdown of their health. When we live in contentment we have time to do the needful such as studying the word of God. It takes a peaceful and calm spirit to ponder on the scriptures and tap from the depth of the knowledge that is in God’s word. God’s word admonishes us to be contented; “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 (KJV).
Contentment is a product of trust in God and His promises. Any riches or wealth that does not give you time to serve God is a trap from hell and must be avoided like a plague. It is lack of contentment that breeds corruption, hence Christ request that people be content with their wages (Luke 3:14).
The presence of Christ in our life enhances our ability to live contented. Inviting Christ into your life will help you to live godly and contented. This so because “According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness,…” 2 Peter 1:3a(KJV)
Prayer: Father grant me the grace to live a godly and contented life
Brother Joel Ezeugo