Abiding and Abounding

07/19/23 – 07/27/23

Contentment Designed by God

By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  07/24/23

Have you ever played the comparison game? The rules are simple: Look at what other people have or do, and then desire those things or accomplishments for yourself. This so-called “game” brings discontentment and envy. The Bible teaches that we are to be content with the life God has given us (see Philippians 4:11-12). This does not mean that we settle for less or stop trying to reach our goals.

Contentment is something God has designed for us. Whether we are single or married, we can achieve contentment and peace within our hearts. In order to do this, we must first discover who we are in Christ and realize what He has done for us. He has saved us from an eternal death and chosen us as His beloved children.

During the apostle Paul’s time, some Jews were not content being Jews. It was fashionable to act as Gentiles. On the other hand, some Gentiles didn’t think they were spiritual enough as Christians unless they became like the Jews. They each thought the other had something more.

Do you ever compare yourself to someone you think is more spiritual? Do you think less of your prayer life when you compare it to that of a prayer warrior you admire? Do you feel inadequate to share your testimony after hearing someone else share his? God does not measure your life against the life of another. He calls you to follow Christ and His example with the strength He has provided through His Spirit.

Therefore, don’t allow people to pressure you into doing what is popular. Don’t long for their possessions and personal achievements. Seek God and learn to be content with what He has provided. As you seek His face and focus on glorifying Him, you will continue to be transformed into His image with ever-increasing glory (see 2 Corinthians 3:18),

Prayer: Lord, thank You for being my all-sufficiency. Teach me to be content as Your child and to set my eyes on the promise of eternity with You. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“Each person should remain in the situation they were in when God called them” (1 Corinthians 7:20).