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 grateful for what God has already given us.
Even 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).
it mean that we shouldn’t have goals
or aim for excellence.
If we’re not careful, we can spend our entire lives chasing things in the "pursuit of happiness." But, being content means that our happiness is not determined by what we achieve, who we know, or what we have outside of Christ. Apostle 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.
Written by: Marsha DuCille - Publisher/Editorial Director
publisher @ calledmagazine.com
