Virtues over Vices - Contentment

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned, in whatever situation I am, to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:8–13 ESV).

 

Contentment is a state of quiet happiness and satisfaction with one's current circumstances. It is an inner peace that comes from being at ease with what you have, rather than constantly striving for more. Some of the key characteristics are satisfaction with the present; peace of mind; not complacent; and independent of external events. Contentment was a powerful word to the Greek-speaking people of the Apostle Paul’s day. In fact, many teachers in that day believed that contentment was the greatest virtue.

 

Unfortunately their version of contentment was based on self-accomplishment. To become content, they taught, a person had to be able to provide completely for himself or herself. That is also true in our day. We see people valued more highly than others based on their position, power, or possessions.

 

The Apostle Paul knew that it was a myth to think that a human being could be completely self-sustaining. And yet here he looks within himself and finds that everything he needs is there within him. He comes to the absolute understanding that God put it there. God’s own Spirit had begun living inside of Paul.

 

This contentment provided by the Spirit of God gave Paul tremendous freedom. He goes on to say that sometimes his physical needs have been met, and sometimes they have not been met. But even when he has not had enough food, clothing, money, or other basic needs, he has still found that God’s peace and strength have been present within him. That is real contentment; that is real peace of mind. That should be the central focus of our mind!