Definition of contentment: A state of happiness and satisfaction
Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Hebrews 13:5
Earth is not our true home, and feeling uncomfortable or unsettled is normal. You can be assured that Jesus is preparing our true home in heaven. But until then, we may constantly seek satisfaction in material things. We are not made for this earth but for heaven. This leads to a constant search for something beyond our grasp, resulting in fleeting happiness.
As I reflect on the Bible, I realize that not a single “main character” remained stationary. From Abraham’s journey to the Promised Land to Paul’s missionary work, moving around and eternal change is a common theme for spiritual gain. They were not promised an easy life and were not always satisfied, but they were always aware of their mission and found something to keep going.
Knowledge had entertained me and it has shaped me and it has failed me. Something in me still starves.
Mary Oliver
As humans, we tend to become complacent or apathetic in our lives and careers. We are so accustomed to our comfortable lifestyle that sometimes these things become idols to us. Our comfortable bed, our large spacious kitchen, even a hot shower; these things are certainly nice, and leaving them can be difficult. However, we should not become so attached to them that we are unwilling to pursue new opportunities.
Remember, our ultimate purpose is to glorify God, and to let him be known to others by us. While some may be called to remain in one place to do His work, it is important to consider whether we stay out of a genuine calling or a desire for comfort. Reflect on the fact that stepping outside our comfort zone could bring more comfort and fulfillment to our lives.
In God’s eyes, the greatest heroes of faith are not those who achieve prosperity, success, and power in this life, but those who treat life as a temporary assignment and serve faithfully, expecting their promised reward of eternity.
Rick Warren
The world sends us conflicting messages, that makes it tempting to conform. This can cause us to lose our identity in Christ, so it’s important to distinguish between His truth and the world’s messages. Despite judgment and lack of understanding, we are called to change others through our faith, that’s a huge deal!
This is a difficult transition, Jesus never promised an easy life, but he does say the following:
For with God nothing shall be impossible.
Luke 1:37
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9
And we can know he keeps his promises by all the faithfulness we read in the Bible.
God takes no pleasure in a man who doesn’t keep his promises.
Ecclesiastes 5:5
A CHALLENGE
If you’re feeling overwhelmed about taking a difficult step, start by praying and seeking guidance from God. While His answer may not come immediately, rest assured that He will respond to your prayers in His own time. The key is to be still and open-minded enough to hear His voice and to be ready to respond faithfully.
Perhaps you already have a sense of what God is calling you to do. It could be a mission trip, changing jobs, volunteering, or a decision to home-school your children. These steps may seem daunting, especially when the outcome is uncertain. However, we can trust that blessings await us when we are faithful stewards of God’s plan, and that contentment can come from simply being obedient to His will.
So finally, pray and have faith in God’s leading, we can trust that everything will work out for the good of His plan. So take that first step with confidence, knowing that God is in control of your life and that He will be with you every step of the way. We are praying and rooting for you!