Why does contentment seem so illusive at times? A major reason is that we think that contentment is getting what we want rather than being satisfied with what we have. Content is the person who is satisfied with what he or she has. The Apostle Paul gives us a helpful perspective on contentment,

Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. (Philippians 4:11-12)

We discover that Paul was not naturally content, but he learned how to develop an attitude of contentment. Paul had not always known how to experience contentment, but now enduring inhospitable conditions as a Roman prisoner, he was experiencing contentment. Contentment may also be difficult to experience in times of prosperity. It’s been said that the true test of a man is not adversity,  but if you want to test a man then see how he handles prosperity.  Paul however, had learned the secret of contentment in any and every type of circumstance!

What was the secret that Paul had discovered? Paul knew that his spiritual foundation was secure – Christ was at the center of his life and he realized that he was complete in Christ. George Moore wrote, “A man travels the world over in search of what he needs and returns home to find it.” Paul had learned contentment in his circumstances however, he was not content in his spiritual maturity. Earlier in this epistle he declared,

Not that I have already obtained it or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:12)

We are to be content in our circumstances, but always pressing on to know the fullness of life in Christ in our spiritual lives. The word Paul used for contentment expressed the Stoic concept of wanting nothing and yet possessing everything. Epictetus wisely observed, “Contentment comes not so much from great wealth as from few wants.”

How would you evaluate your level of contentment? Contentment is not found in material wealth. John D. Rockefeller was asked how much money is enough. He thought a moment and said, “Just a little more.” Jesus warned His disciples,

Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions. (Luke 12:15)

Contentment is a matter of your perspective rather than circumstances. If you aren’t content with what you already have, then why should God trust entrust you with more? Contentment consists not in adding more, but in realizing that you are complete in Christ.

Associate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark

Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University

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