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Blessings
Pastor Joe
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Contentment
Lesson Objective:
By the end of this lesson, we will have a deeper understanding of biblical contentment, examining both positive examples of individuals who were content and the consequences of those who were not. We will be able to apply these lessons in evaluating our own satisfaction in life and our relationship with God.
Primary Scripture:
- Philippians 4:11-13 – Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. 12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: everywhere and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.13 I can do all things through Christ which strengthened me
Paul’s statement about learning to be content in all situations reflects a mature faith that is anchored in Christ, rather than in material circumstances. This passage sets the tone for understanding how contentment transcends external conditions.
Introduction- Definition
According to standard dictionaries, contentment is defined as:
• A state of happiness and satisfaction.
• A feeling of being pleased and satisfied with what one has.
Biblical Definition of Contentment:
• In the Bible, contentment is described as a state of satisfaction and peace that comes from trusting in God’s provision, rather than relying on external circumstances or material wealth. It is an inner sense of sufficiency that arises from dependence on God, recognizing that He meets all needs according to His will. Contentment in the Bible is closely linked to faith, gratitude, and obedience, and it emphasizes finding satisfaction in God alone.
Examples of Contentment:
1. Paul in Prison (Philippians 4:11-13)
- Context: Paul writes to the Philippians from prison, under dire circumstances. Despite being in chains, facing an uncertain future, Paul declares that he has learned to be content in both plenty and in want.
- Why Contentment?: Paul’s contentment doesn’t come from material abundance but from his faith in Christ. He draws strength from God, which allows him to endure and remain joyful, regardless of his physical or material conditions.
- Lesson: Contentment is not tied to external circumstances but is rooted in a deep trust in God’s sovereignty and provision. Even in hardship, Paul finds peace.
2. David’s Trust in God (Psalm 23:1)
- Context: David, despite being a king, reflects on his reliance on God, describing God as his shepherd who provides all he needs. The psalm illustrates his contentment with God's provision and protection.
- Why Contentment?: David acknowledges that with God as his shepherd, he lacks nothing of true value. His contentment is based on the assurance of God's guidance, provision, and care.
- Lesson: Contentment flows from recognizing God’s role as our provider. Like David, when we see God as our shepherd, we can rest, knowing that He supplies everything we need.
3. The Widow’s Offering (Mark 12:41-44)
- Context: Jesus observes a poor widow giving two small coins, all she had, into the temple treasury. Despite her poverty, the widow is content to give generously out of faith, trusting that God will care for her.
- Why Contentment?: The widow’s willingness to give her last coins reveals her heart of trust and contentment. She doesn’t hold onto her material possessions as a source of security but places her faith entirely in God’s provision.
- Lesson: True contentment allows a person to give sacrificially, knowing that God is the ultimate provider.
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Examples of Lack of Contentment (and Its Consequences):
1. Adam and Eve’s Discontent in Eden (Genesis 3:1-6)
- Context: In the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve had everything they needed. Yet, when tempted by the serpent, they became discontent with God’s provision and sought to gain knowledge by eating from the forbidden tree.
- Consequence: Their discontent led them to disobey God, resulting in the fall of humanity, banishment from Eden, and the introduction of sin and death into the world.
- Lesson: Discontentment leads to disobedience, and its consequences can be far-reaching, affecting not only the individual but also others around them. Seeking satisfaction outside of God’s will results in brokenness.
2. The Israelites Grumbling in the Wilderness (Exodus 16:2-4)
- Context: After being freed from slavery in Egypt, the Israelites began grumbling about their lack of food. Despite God's miracles, they became discontent and complained that life had been better in Egypt.
- Consequence: Their lack of contentment resulted in murmuring and disobedience, which angered God. Although He provided manna, the constant grumbling led to punishment, and many did not enter the Promised Land.
- Lesson: Discontentment leads to a lack of gratitude and can result in missing out on the blessings God has in store. Focusing on what is lacking blinds us to God’s current provision.
3. Achan’s Greed at Jericho (Joshua 7:1-26)
- Context: After the conquest of Jericho, God commanded the Israelites to destroy all the spoils of war. However, Achan became discontent with this command and coveted the wealth, secretly taking items for himself.
- Consequence: Achan’s discontent led to personal sin, and his actions brought defeat upon Israel in battle. Eventually, Achan and his family were judged and executed for his disobedience.
- Lesson: Discontentment can lead to greed and selfish actions that have severe consequences not just for the individual, but for the community. When we prioritize material gain over obedience to God, it can bring disaster.
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Key Points for Application:
1. Contentment in God’s Timing: Both Paul’s experience in prison and the widow’s offering show that contentment involves trusting God’s timing and provision, even when circumstances seem difficult. This can be applied by encouraging us all to find peace in our current situations and trust in God’s plan for our lives.
2. The Danger of Comparison: Adam and Eve’s story demonstrates how discontentment often comes when we compare ourselves to what we think we’re lacking or what others have. We must focus on gratitude for our own blessings, rather than on what others possess.
3. Trusting God for Provision: The Israelites’ grumbling and Achan’s greed serve as warnings of what happens when we fail to trust in God’s provision. Contentment is an act of faith, believing that God will supply what we need.
Examples of how lack of contentment will lead to sins
1. Stealing
2. Cheating
3. Unfaithfulness in marriage
Examples of how lack of contentment will lead to lifestyle problems
1. Financial hardships that can lead to sins
2. Mental and physical problems such as anxiety and depression
Conclusion:
Contentment is a spiritual discipline that comes from recognizing God’s sovereignty and trusting Him to provide all that we need. The examples of Paul, David, and the widow show us that true contentment is possible in any situation when we place our faith in God. Conversely, the discontentment of Adam and Eve, the Israelites, and Achan highlights the dangers of striving for more than God intends for us, leading to sin and suffering.
This lesson can help each of us reflect on our personal lives and our relationship with God, learning to cultivate contentment in both times of abundance and times of need.
You have reached the website for Jinan International Christian Fellowship. We are a group of foreigners who come together to worship and praise the Lord. We meet each Sunday afternoon at San… which is located…. . In compliance with Chinese law only those individuals with foreign passports or their spouses can worship with us.
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