There is a common misconception that contentment and complacency are the same. Well, they’re not. Complacency (a false sense of peace and comfort*) can make us resistant to change, and satisfied with the status quo. Contentment (internal satisfaction, which does not demand changes in external circumstances**) leaves us open to growth, and helps us recognize the value of what we already have. A wise person once stated,

"Contentment is not the fulfillment of what you want, but the realization of how much you already have."

How often do you take the time to count your blessings?

Do you spend more time thanking God for what He has already given you, or asking Him to give you more?

If we’re not careful, we can live our lives chasing external things because we long for fulfillment, fear complacency, or are in the "pursuit of happiness." The Word of God teaches us, however, that contentment is not only different from complacency; it’s the key to true happiness. Like many of us, Apostle Paul had to learn the secret of contentment. In Philippians 4:12-13, he wrote, "I have learned the secret of being content no matter what happens. I am content whether I am well fed or hungry. I am content whether I have more than enough or not enough. I can do everything by the power of Christ. He gives me strength" (New International Reader’s Version).

What was the secret that Paul learned? He learned the value of what he already had. He had Christ. We have Christ. Unlike complacency, contentment gives us a true sense of peace and comfort. Contentment is not "settling," nor does it mean that we shouldn’t have goals or aim for excellence. Rather, it means that our happiness is not determined by what we achieve, who we know, or what we have outside of Christ. Paul learned that no title, position, level of education, relationship, accomplishment, marriage, or financial attainment could make him happy. Nor could any external set back, mishap, disappointment, or hardship destroy him.

In the words of Frederick Koenig, the German inventor,

"We tend to forget that happiness doesn’t come as a result of getting something we don’t have, but rather [as a result] of recognizing and appreciating what we do have."

Let’s not forget where true happiness lies. Find contentment in knowing that although we could have more, God has already blessed us with so much.

Our cry:
Lord, thank You for everything that You have already given me. In Your love and faithfulness, I can find contentment — a true sense of peace, comfort, and never-ending joy. Please forgive me for every time I have pursued happiness in external things. You are my unwavering source of security. Only You can fulfill me.

For I amYour handmaiden. I am Your servant.

Recommended reading:
Philippians 4:12-13
1 Timothy 6:6-10

Marsha DuCille Publisher/Editorial Director This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
*http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/complacent **Holman Bible Dictionary Note: In Philippians chapter 4, the Greek word autarkas, translated "content," is literally "self-sufficient."

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