Content-ment

I've been thinking about the concept of contentment. In Philippians 4, Paul tells us that he has "learned to be content in whatever the circumstances," whether he is in need or has plenty. In fact, this is the context in which he more famously says in verse 13, "I can do everything through him who gives me strength."

What comes to your mind when you think of contentment? I think for many of us we tend to think of vague feelings of rest and relaxation, a nebulous feeling of warmth. Yet Paul says he can be content in need.

What occurred to me recently may be obvious to you - namely, the similarity between the adjective "content" (con-tent, as in "I'm feeling content") and the noun "content" (cahn-tent, as in the "content of a book"). Contentment necessarily requires content. In other words it isn't really a nebulous feeling, but directly depends on our understanding. That's partly why Paul says he "learned to be content." He came to recognize the truth that Christ is sufficient for all things, that his hope is in eternity, and that God is sovereign and works all things for good for those who love him.

When we really understand and meditate on the "content" of the Gospel we will learn to be content irregardless of our circumstances. We will, as Paul says in Colossians 3, set our minds and hearts on things above, not on earthly things. True contentment is rooted in our understanding of and relationship with the God who Is, who does not change, and has pledged His steadfast love to us in Christ. That is why Paul shares his confidence with the Philippians in verse 19: "And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus."

Are you content? Where is your hope?