But godliness with contentment is great gain.
1 Timothy 6:6
I’ve been asking myself this question: “In the middle of the many challenges of everyday life, what does contentment look like? How would it actually be demonstrated?”
When my computer or printer doesn't work, I have learned to get the instruction book out; when I have no idea of how to reach an address, I have learned to use the GPS. Even so, when a much weightier issue, such as contentment, is considered , I run to the Word of God for the divine guidelines that will answer my question and give me direction.
I have found out from the passage above, that for the believer, godliness with contentment is great gain. I understand in a practical definition, that is is simply the stable state of being satisfied with God Himself, and with what He has given. If I am to know true biblical contentment, I must FIRST have an accurate information base of knowing and understanding the will of God. Not only does that involve a clear picture of His holiness but also a good understanding of His sovereignty in all the affairs of mankind.
THEN, as I come to grips with the character and nature of God in the study of His Word, it will be imperative that I begin to practice applicationally what I know academically. There are specific steps that are needed for me to progress toward maturity and contentment, as I live out my life for the purpose of pleasing God and profiting others.
I can actually check off the following, in order to examine myself and see if I am contented in the place of God’s choosing for me today:
1. Discover God’s will in a regular daily pattern of personal Bible study.
2. Praise God for His working in my life.
3. Develop communication excellence in interpersonal relationships.
4. Deal with offenses in a God-honoring manner.
5. Pray scripturally for others on a daily basis.
6. Structure specific plans for a personal ministry to others.
7. Show kindness to others for God’s glory
8. Express gratitude to others.
Today, it is my desire and commitment to experience and express godliness with contentment.
(c) 1992, 2014 N.A.Collins
Limited copy permission for 1 personal file copy
1 Timothy 6:6
I’ve been asking myself this question: “In the middle of the many challenges of everyday life, what does contentment look like? How would it actually be demonstrated?”
When my computer or printer doesn't work, I have learned to get the instruction book out; when I have no idea of how to reach an address, I have learned to use the GPS. Even so, when a much weightier issue, such as contentment, is considered , I run to the Word of God for the divine guidelines that will answer my question and give me direction.
I have found out from the passage above, that for the believer, godliness with contentment is great gain. I understand in a practical definition, that is is simply the stable state of being satisfied with God Himself, and with what He has given. If I am to know true biblical contentment, I must FIRST have an accurate information base of knowing and understanding the will of God. Not only does that involve a clear picture of His holiness but also a good understanding of His sovereignty in all the affairs of mankind.
THEN, as I come to grips with the character and nature of God in the study of His Word, it will be imperative that I begin to practice applicationally what I know academically. There are specific steps that are needed for me to progress toward maturity and contentment, as I live out my life for the purpose of pleasing God and profiting others.
I can actually check off the following, in order to examine myself and see if I am contented in the place of God’s choosing for me today:
1. Discover God’s will in a regular daily pattern of personal Bible study.
2. Praise God for His working in my life.
3. Develop communication excellence in interpersonal relationships.
4. Deal with offenses in a God-honoring manner.
5. Pray scripturally for others on a daily basis.
6. Structure specific plans for a personal ministry to others.
7. Show kindness to others for God’s glory
8. Express gratitude to others.
Today, it is my desire and commitment to experience and express godliness with contentment.
(c) 1992, 2014 N.A.Collins
Limited copy permission for 1 personal file copy
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