What is contentment? The most common definition of contentment is simply being happy. While this is partly true, it does not fully capture what it is. Of course, we’re happy after achieving long-awaited dreams or goals, such as a romantic relationship, the final achievement of marriage, or much-desired possessions like expensive gifts, a position, a home, a vehicle, or money. But after a while, the novelty usually wears off, and thoughts and feelings of wanting something else or more begin to disrupt the pleasures those things once brought.
So What Is Contentment? A Feeling or A Choice?
Common definitions of Contentment:
“A state of peaceful happiness; satisfied or showing satisfaction with things as they are; satisfaction or the state of being pleased.”
Common definitions of Discontentment:
“Unhappiness caused by the failure of one’s hopes, desires, or expectations; the state of not being contented; dissatisfaction.”
Scriptural definition of Contentment:
“A deep, lasting satisfaction and peace that comes from trusting God and being satisfied with what He has provided, regardless of external circumstances. It is not merely temporary happiness or the pursuit of more, but a state of being pleased and at rest in God’s provision.”
Scriptural definition of Discontentment:
“Refers to a state of dissatisfaction, restlessness, or unhappiness with one’s circumstances, often rooted in a lack of trust in God’s provision, timing, or sovereignty. It is portrayed as a spiritual issue that can lead to ingratitude, rebellion, and a weakening of faith.”
Contentment Is Peace, Patience, Trust, Submission, Flexibility, and Gratefulness
As the Apostle Paul expresses in the scripture below, he tells his providers he’s grateful for their provisions, but he had “learned” to be content in whatever situations he faces. When you read about Paul’s life up to this point, you’ll see he didn’t achieve this in a day or a week, but through gradual, intentional development of patience, obedience, inner peace, and trust in God amid many hardships and disappointments.
“Not that I speak from [any personal] need, for I have learned to be content [and self-sufficient through Christ, satisfied to the point where I am not disturbed or uneasy] regardless of my circumstances.” (Phil.4:11)
Contentment is Calmness > > DIS–contentment is Agitation.
Contentment is Stability > > DIS–contentment is Uneasiness
I’ve also learned that being flexible, willing to shift directions when necessary and not complaining, and being grateful are often-overlooked aspects of contentment; however, another essential part of learning to be content is submission: “the willingness to align myself with God’s thoughts, direction, and purpose.”
Contentment Is of The Heart and Mind.
A restless or troubled heart has no peace; it’s not content. True contentment is all about getting to know Jesus intimately. There’s a song by Richard Smallwood with a verse I love: “(Jesus) You are the heart of my contentment.” When our hearts are soft and tender with His Heart, He’s able to bless us with His Heart’s desire, which is to fulfill our heart’s desires.
A happy, unscattered, peaceful mind is an invaluable blessing. It comes from believing that God is right in all His ways. He loves you! So why should we be impatient, restless, or discontented? (Barnes commentary)
Live One Day at A Time!
“What I’m trying to do here is to get you to relax, not to be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God’s giving. People who don’t know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don’t worry about missing out. You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.
“Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.” (Matt.6:33-34)
Contentment Is Not a Feeling. But a Life Journey of Choosing Gratefulness as We Travel!
“It is better to be content with what the eyes can see than for one’s heart always to crave more. This continual longing is futile—like chasing the wind.” (Eccl. 6:9)
Thank you for taking this journey with me. I appreciate it. If you have not yet asked Jesus into your heart, now is the perfect time to invite Him. His heart is open and waiting for you. Jesus loves you and wants you to live content, blessed, and happy.
Sincerely,
Jacqui
