How Do We Live Content Lives?

Songwriter Jim Reeves wrote, This world is not my home, I’m just a passing through. My treasures are laid up somewhere beyond the blue.

Can you say the same? Or are you seeking contentment in things of this world?

True peace and contentment come from accepting God’s lordship over everything and living a generous life. True success is faithfulness with what you have, regardless of the amount.

Discontentment, on the other hand, is characterized by a lack of peace that causes people to make poor financial decisions based on the world’s assumption that more, better, faster will cure the pain.

But, more, better, faster will never bring lasting satisfaction. According to Ecclesiastes 5:10, He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves wealth with his income; this also is vanity.

Contentment, contrary to popular opinion, is not simply being satisfied where you are. It’s knowing God’s plan for your life, having the conviction to live it, and believing that God’s peace is greater than the world’s problems.

Christians become discontent by adopting worldly goals that are indulgent, greedy, and prideful.

Contentment requires personal discipline and a reasonable standard of living that enables you to give generously.

It’s the result of proper priorities. Hebrews 13:5 says, Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “ I will never leave you nor forsake you.”  

Contentment is developed with a thankful attitude of praising God for all things in every situation.

It demands that we reject a fearful spirit and trust God.

If you need more help or encouragement with your finances, call the Crown Helpline at 800-722-1976 or go online to crown.org.