And Be Content

Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. - Hebrews 13:5

    Contentment with God’s providence is peculiar only to the child of God. The things we have, God has given us. The things we do not have, he has withheld. This truth he teaches us by experience forI have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content (Phil 4:11).

    By his grace we will learn he will never leave us or forsake us. He sends trials, afflictions, peace, contentment, good times, and bad times that we might trust him, and look to him for all things spiritual and temporal. It honors our Lord when we can say in our heart, and to the world, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. It dishonors him when we murmur and complain as if God were doing us an injustice. Happy is the man that is content. Godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content (1 Tm 6:6-8).

    When he causes me to consider all of my spiritual blessings in Christ, and all he has provided in this world through Christ, I am humbled and shamed that I ever complained about anything. May God help us enjoy the blessings from our Lord’s hand, and live our remaining days with contentment and peace in our hearts.

    In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you (1 Thes 5:18).