I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through [Jesus] Christ, who gives me strength. Philippians 4:11-13

 

One of the richest men in history was once asked “How much money is enough money?” His reply? “Just a little bit more”[1].

 

Who hasn’t been tempted to believe the lie, “If I just had a little bit more (or a lot more!) I’d be happy.” The truth is, chasing happiness is no lasting guarantee of abiding joy and peace. But we can practice something far more lasting: contentment.

 

The Apostle Paul wrote: “I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through [Jesus] Christ, who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:11-13). These verses reveal that the source of contentment in all circumstances is knowing and finding joy in relationship with Jesus.

 

Scripture also talks about “making level paths” for our feet (Hebrews 12:13). This means that there are things we need to avoid, and things we need to practice if we want this contented life. For example, there are friends who are all about status and possessions that we need to limit time with. Another huge contentment disrupter is scrolling social media instead of taking time daily to talk to God and listen to what He says about us in His love letter to us we call the Bible.

 

The secret to a contented life isn’t more of anything. It’s living everyday life in the deep friendship with Jesus that He offers to you today.

 

[1] Biography.com Editors. “John D. Rockefeller Biography.” The Biography.com website, A&E Television Networks, 2 April 2014, https://www.biography.com/business-leaders/john-d-rockefeller. Accessed April 27, 2023.