1 Timothy 6:6(KJV)
But godliness with contentment is a great gain.
Godliness implies a kind of devotion to God that produces a practical awareness of God in every aspect of life. Godliness measures the level of sanctification of the children of God. True godliness is a way of life that saturates every characteristic of life, from appearances to actions. A lot of people think it is impossible to live a life of godliness, and for this reason, ungodliness has become a norm in today’s world. The world may tolerate ungodliness and live with its consequences, but we, as children of God, cannot afford to live a life of ungodliness. Godliness has a secret that many may not recognize because of its simplicity. This secret is contentment. Our anchor Scripture admonishes every child of God to cultivate contentment. Apostle Paul reminds us that a simple formula determines ultimate gain, the gain of inestimable value: godly character + fulfillment = net worth.
As Christians, we are, therefore, expected to be content spiritually, financially, materially, and in our marriages. We have to be satisfied with whatever God has given to us: our possessions, position in life, abilities, opportunities, and pleasures that are legitimate. To be content is the richest in the whole world. When we are at peace with what we have, we won’t indulge in ungodly or immoral acts to get what we do not have. Proverbs 16:8 says, “Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues without right.” In today’s world, many people continue to seek after more of the things of this world, never content with their lot in life. When we live a life of contentment, we won’t be like King Ahab, who misused his position to trap an innocent Naboth to take over what belongs to him(1 Kings 21). In other words, when contentment in God decreases, covetousness for gain increases. Content will prevent us from being envious of people under us who are faithfully discharging their duties to the glory of God. Lack of satisfaction made Haman hate Mordecai, so much so that he planned to get rid of an innocent, dutiful, and uncompromising doorman (Esther 5:11-14). Haman misused his position as a member of the king’s cabinet to pursue the destruction of innocent people (Esther 3:8-11). It is precisely what some people in privileged positions are doing today, even though this is to their own peril. When we are content with our wives or husbands, we will remain faithful to them. However, discontentment makes a person live an unfaithful life. Hebrews 13:5–6 says, “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.” ……..”
Beloved, God’s requirement of your faithfulness in stewardship applies to every area of your life. Learn to be content with where you are and what you have. Instead of focusing on what you do not have, pay attention to what you do have. Focus on what God has given you rather than what He hasn’t, and be grateful. Compromising to get rich is not worth it. Trust God because He wants the best for you; He will give it to you when it is the right season. If you are faithful, God will cause all things to work together for your good (Romans 8:28). You can pursue godliness or material gain. The choice is yours. But as a Christian, be content so that unbelievers will see the light and glorify our Father, who is in Heaven. I will end with Philippians 4:12(TLB); it says, “I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of contentment in every situation, whether it be a full stomach or hunger, plenty or want.” Remember, it pays to be content.
O Lord, give me the grace to live above covetousness and greed, causing Your fear to rule my heart in contentment in the Name of Jesus.