Finding Contentment in a Materialistic World
In westernized cultures today, we have been raised believing that success, wealth, and the acquisition of possessions contributes to our overall level of happiness. Not only are we susceptible to this belief system, but we are targeted by marketing strategies backed by billions of dollars to convince us that what we have isn’t enough. As Christ followers, it’s important to remember that happiness and contentment are not interchangeable. Happiness is circumstantial, temporary, and fleeting; contentment lies deeper than just emotions, and is based on our state of mind. True contentment comes from knowing you are at the center of God’s will, and is impossible without relationship with God.
Tom Brady, a popular and wildly successful NFL quarterback once stated after winning his third Superbowl: “Man I feel like there’s gotta be something more than this.” In the world’s eye, this statement wouldn’t make sense. He’s popular, successful, incredibly wealthy, and has achieved so much in his career; yet he wrestles with an internal dissatisfaction and belief that it still isn’t enough to satisfy him. Blaise Pascal affirms what we know as believers to be true:
“There is a God-shaped vacuum in the heart of each man which cannot be satisfied by any created thing but only by God the Creator, made known through Jesus Christ.”
Wealth, possessions, and success in themselves are not inherently bad things. In fact, there are many verses in the book of Proverbs that remind us these things are a blessing from the Lord. But we must remember their place and that only in God alone can we find fulfillment and contentment. John Cortines makes a very sharp statement in the book, True Riches: “The pieces go back in the box when the game is over.” In other words, this life is fleeting and the items we possess are temporary. Our relationship with God is eternal, and the only source of peace and true, lasting joy.
Contentment goes beyond satisfaction with possessions.
Because contentment is about recognizing God’s place in our life and being at the center of his will, when circumstances are beyond our control, we can still find peace. Paul suffered countless imprisonments, hardships, beatings, and loss; yet he was able to make this statement: I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
How can we learn to be content?
It’s important to recognize that the world, temptations, and clever marketing schemes will try to distract you and create a hunger for more. Whether it’s a new tech gadget, the ideal income level, or that “dream home,” you may find yourself wrestling with contentment. Finding ways to establish healthy habits that will constantly point you back to God as the central focus to your life is the best way to deal with the ongoing challenge of remaining content. Ask yourself questions:
What lies am I believing that are leading me away from being content in this moment?
If I do achieve the level of success I’m shooting for, or if I get the item I really want, is that going to bring me long term happiness? Am I trying to achieve happiness through this purchase or goal?
Am I content?
When we find contentment in God, we are able to freely pursue God’s mission faithfully and effectively.
Matthew 6:33 tells us to “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” God is our provider and he tells us that if we simply seek Him first, he will ensure we have what we need.
This blog post was written as a follow up to our recent video discussion on the topic of contentment. Click here to view more on this topic, notes, Bible references, and more.
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