We live in a
world that is always reaching for more. Satisfaction is a scarce commodity. One
day you can purchase the latest and greatest cellular phone and just about the
time you figure out all its new features, the next model is already being
placed upon shelves in stores everywhere. Trying to stay on top of the newest
products is like trying to apprehend your own shadow, or as Solomon said it, its
like trying “to grasp the wind”.
The apostle
Paul wrote, “Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever
state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound.
Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry,
both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who
strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:11-13)
The question
is, “How do we find contentment while living in a culture striving to keep up
with the Joneses?” The answer is found in Scripture.
First, remember
that contentment is not based upon our outward circumstances. The example of King
Soloman attests to this. He had both the wisdom and the resources to afford his
heart its every desire. Therefore, he sought fulfillment diligently.
As he would stop
and ponder upon all his accomplishments, he stated, “Then I looked on all the
works that my hands had done and on the labor in which I had toiled, and indeed
all was vanity and grasping for the wind. There was no profit under the sun.”
(Ecclesiastes 2:11). If the desires of man’s heart could be satisfied with
material wealth, the truly King Solomon would have found it. Instead, he found
that the whole duty of man is to fear God and keep His commandments. This he
says is man’s all (Ecclesiastes 12:13)
Second, we focus
our minds on what truly matters. The apostle Paul helps us to adjust our focus.
He wrote, “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died,
and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is our life
appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.” (Colossians 3:2-4)
What removes
anxiety from the heart is a proper focus. Paul tells us to focus on things
above not things on this earth. Our goal is heaven itself. Through Christ, who
is our life, we have salvation and the hope of eternal glory with God.
When we take
our focus off the cares of this world and remember the great things God has
done for us and the great promises that He has made, then we will truly find
contentment for our souls.
God Bless each
of you,
Eric Hicks
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