Contentment is Synomous with Happiness!
"...for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 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." Philippians 4:11-12 (NIV)
Contentment: definition:(n.) the state of being contented; satisfaction; ease of mind. (dictionary.reference.com)
In the above listed scriptures, Paul is thanking the Philippians for their concerns for his needs. He tells them that although he appreciates their concerns but no matter what his current circumstances are or have been he has learned to be content. Paul's contentment came from believing that God would supply all of his needs and provide strength along the way.
Can you imagine waking each day filled with a contented heart? A heart filled with happiness? Yes, I know skepticism rears its ugly head at the thought of being able to awaken each day filled with happiness. I do however believe this can be our day to day reality but lets face it...we are control freaks! LOL. Instead of waking each day and letting go of our daily "concerns" and trusting in God, we spend the day attempting to control every action and moment of the day. Guilty as charged! I actually begin each day with prayer from a humble heart stating that I'm going to allow Him to take charge. I don't get very far because as soon as I get up from my knees the control begins. I go into "Supermom" mode and drive my girls crazy while they are getting ready for school (although they are nearly 16 and don't require my assistance). As I persist in reminding them of their responsibilities as students they are quick to say "Mommy, we got this!" (I would like to make a disclaimer that I have relinquished the reigns on my 24 year old graduate degreed son...woosah). Although, I'm not driven to being easily stressed, I do place more on my "plate" than I should everyday (need for control) thus ending my days in total exhaustion.
My belief is that I do experience a satisfactory degree of contentment due to not worrying about the things that are beyond my control, hence, others actions, my car breaking down, the toilet overflowing, etc. I have learned to accept people for who they are with the understanding that it is my choice whether or not to allow them into my life and I believe that has afforded me a bit of contentment. I also adhere to a regular routine of prayer, heathly diet and exercise, laughter, girl and/or guy talk, optimism, music and nightly reading of the Word. I'm a continuous work in progress so there is definitely room for improvement along my journey to fullness and contentment in Christ.
Reminder: Contentment is synonomous with happiness and it is attainable.
A woman whose heart is working on being hidden in Christ...
Mel
Its always a joy listenin and reading hat is truely on your mind. We have bumped heads numerous of times, but we both know its a part of growing. I'm your only son and always will be. I love you and the girls. Without the 3 of you plus Crystal and Joe I don't know what I'd do. I can honestly say I am proud of the woman that I call my mother. You are an awesome cook, a caring over protecting mother, a fearing woman of God and a wonderful human being. I couldn't ask for a better mother. I believe God put me on this earth for a reason and He is using you to guide me. He knows I am stubborn and hard headed. He also knows that you will guide me down the righteous path into this stage of "manhood". I hae learned pretty much everything about life from you! All my knowledge about relationships, how to treat a woman of God and how to be a christian man. I just want to thank you for always loving me even when we are not on th same page. I LOVE YOU! I only have 1 momma lol.
ReplyDelete...as we allow the insignificant matters of the day to cloud our minds and hearts, we prevent the level of contentment God has for us.
ReplyDeleteI mentioned to friends a few weeks ago that sometimes my son will begin a sarcastic banter with me and it just brightens my heart...those are true moments of contentment...no matter what issues we may experience between us, laughter can always ease the tension.