But 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 Timothy 6:6-8
Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. —Philippians 4:11
“Content: Contained within limits; hence, having the desires limited by that which one has; not disposed to repine or grumble; satisfied; contented; at rest.”
Contentment is a learned behavior. Yes, the ability to be satisfied when you don’t have all that you would like is truly a learned behavior. It is in our human DNA to desire, want, need, wish, long, crave, and yearn for things from time to time.
It is easy to find oneself grumbling, griping, and complaining about the things we do not have. See, there is this thing called “gain” that we all like, love, and live for. We even put a price tag on gain in the form of money, houses, land, things, trinkets, and toys. According to the Apostle Paul, none of these things are gain.
Did you realize there is a way to go beyond gain to great gain? Paul gives us the easy button when he said, “Godliness with contentment is great gain.” I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to stop at gain. I want great gain. Paul pens an interesting aspect in life when he said, “I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.” When you live in godliness, you can find contentment in whatever state you are in.
You see, you will never gain, buy, build up, earn, or produce contentment. It is something that has to be learned.
Our prayer for you this week: May you come to realize just how much you gain when you become content with godliness.
