What does the Bible say about contentment?

Answer  
  

One dictionary defines *contentment* as “the state of being mentally or emotionally satisfied with things as they are.” Today it is rare that we find anyone who is truly content with his or her condition in life. The Bible has a great deal to say about contentment—being satisfied with what we have, who we are, and where we’re going. Jesus said, “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?” (Matthew 6:25\).  
  

In essence, Jesus is telling us to be content with what we have. Moreover, He has given us a direct command [not to worry](Bible-worry.html) about the things of this world. Then He adds, “For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:32–33\). From Jesus’ words, we can deduce that lack of contentment is sin and it puts us in the same category as those who do not know God.  
  

The [apostle Paul](life-Paul.html) was a man who suffered and went without the comforts of life more than most people could ever imagine (2 Corinthians 11:23–28\). Yet he knew the secret of contentment: “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 4:12–13\). The writer to the Hebrews adds, “Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’ So we may boldly say: ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” (Hebrews 13:5–6\).  
  

Yet people continue to seek after more of the things of this world, never contented with their lot in life. The bumper sticker that reads “He with the most toys wins!” epitomizes the world’s cravings for more and more. [Solomon](life-Solomon.html), the wisest and richest man who ever lived, said, “Whoever loves money never has money enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with his income. This too is meaningless” (Ecclesiastes 5:10\).  
  

“Be content with such things as you have” means that believers should put their trust and confidence in God, knowing that He is the Giver of all good things (James 1:17\) and that He uses even the hard times to show that our faith is genuine, “being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world” (1 Peter 1:7, NLT). We know assuredly that God will cause all things to work together for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28\).  
  

To worry means we do not trust God. The key to overcoming our discontentment and [lack of faith](lack-of-faith.html) is to find out who God really is and how He has been faithful to supply the needs of His people in the past. Such study will grow one’s confidence and trust for the future. The apostle Peter said it succinctly: “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:6–7\).  
  

