How do I become content? It’s a question that is constantly in the back of my mind. You see, I was raised in a family that seemed to be content with little. We didn’t have much and weren’t able to do much. I didn’t like growing up that way and as a result, I have never stayed still. I’ve come to look at everything in the world as a steppingstone. How do I get to the next level? What can I do better to achieve maximum success and efficiency? I have never sat back and realized what I have now is enough because I’m not a man that practices being content.

Philippians 4:10-13: “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.”

To achieve contentment, we have to prioritize our needs. “What has God blessed me with?” and not “What am I doing without?” Second, follow the Holy Spirit. The Spirit speaks to us and leads us through life, telling us God’s will for us, if we listen and follow. Finally, trust that God is faithful. God is with us in every step of our lives, whether we choose to see Him or not. In ups or downs, God promises that there is something more to come and a faithful Christian relies on that promise to get through discontentment.

Being content is a practice. Paul writes that the secret to being content is to live in (practice) a state of mind where God is sufficient for us no matter what the situation is. This is true contentment!