Content or Discontent

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:11-13)

The following is an excerpt from John C. Maxwell’s book Think on These Things.

Which tent do you live in?

All men live in one of two tents–content or discontent.  In which do you live?

The contented man looks beyond his circumstances and sees a better day; the discontented looks at his circumstances and sees no other way.

The contented man understands the purpose for which he was born; the discontented man looks at other’s success with a face that is filled with scorn.

The contented man has surrendered to a purpose that demands his best; the discontented man has selfishly hoarded much and grasping for more, will not rest.

The contented man has placed his values on things which forever last; the discontented man has placed his values on things which will soon be past.

The contented man is anchored to clear goals and is hardly ever swayed; the discontented man has no goals that anchor him and is many times dismayed.

The contented man counts his blessings and names them one by one; the discontented man counts other’s blessings and thinks he has no fun.

All men live in one of two tents–content and discontent.  In which tent do you live?

We will never find contentment if we continue to compare ourselves to others.  Contentment is not in them.  It’s not in our possessions, it’s not in how much we work, how many friends we have, or how many activities we plan.  Contentment is in Jesus!  I pray that you will find contentment this week and rest in the Master’s Plan!

Dear Father God, I pray that I will be content in You alone.  Please help me see where I have allowed myself to be discontent.  Examine my heart and give me a pure drive to follow You alone.

Trusting in the Lord,