Finding Contentment

“Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” -Philippians 4:11-13

Do you ever find yourself in the “oneday” mindset, believing that “one day I’ll be out of debt,” “one day I’ll have enough money,” “one day I’ll be able to stop worrying about my investments,” or “one day I’ll finally be able to relax?”

We yearn for contentment, hoping to find it someday, but is it possible to experience contentment in every moment of every day? According to Paul, it is indeed possible. Our mistake lies in seeking contentment in the wrong places.

When our contentment depends on our circumstances, it will always be temporary because circumstances constantly change. During his lifetime, the Apostle Paul went from worldly success to the depths of poverty. He had been a well-respected Pharisee but became an imprisoned and impoverished follower of Christ. Despite all this, Paul writes in Philippians 4 that he had discovered the secret to contentment. It was not in his circumstances but in the person and work of Jesus.

When we take our eyes off our circumstances and place them on God as Paul did, it changes our perspective. We begin to see that nothing in this world—not money, success, status, people, possessions, or a booming economy—will ever bring lasting contentment. Only a deep, personal relationship with Jesus can offer what our souls long for.

Hebrews 13:5 encourages us to “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.’”

Let us find peace and contentment in the promise that God will never leave us nor forsake us, no matter how bleak our current situation may appear. May our lives be free from the love of money and full of the love of God—the treasure of our hearts and our strength to find peace and contentment in any circumstance.

This article was published in our Faithful Steward magazine, a quarterly publication filled with encouraging stories, biblical teaching, and practical tools to help you grow as a wise and joyful giver. If you'd like to begin receiving Faithful Steward, consider becoming a FaithFi partner.