1 Timothy 6:6-12
But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we certainly cannot take anything out. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be satisfied. Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and many foolish and harmful desires, which plunge them into complete destruction and utter ruin. For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evils. By striving for money, some have wandered away from the faith and have pierced themselves with many pains. But you, O man of God, flee from these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith. Take hold of eternal life, to which you were called and about which you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
Dear Heavenly Father,
As Paul wrote to Timothy, contentment only comes through you. We live in a time of rising prices, and people argue over political matters, also matters of life and death. We must admit we can quickly get wrapped up in these issues and cause all sorts of troubles to think about—causing us to become discontent.
But you are the source of satisfaction. As Paul said, knowing we are fed and clothed is what we need to satisfy our physical bodies because these bodies carry our souls. People may not have the amount of food they want nor the clothes they desire, but you provide for all people, both believers, and unbelievers. We pray that you would teach us contentment with what we have. This body will one day run its course and be placed in the grave. This result is from our sin; you told us in your word that the wages of sin is death. Unless Jesus should come first, Everyone will die, and we will all be held accountable for our actions. True contentment comes from our Savior Jesus; He went to the cross to suffer our sin’s punishment. He died for the complete forgiveness of all our sins, so through faith in Jesus, we have the assurance our sins are already forgiven. Chasing the world’s desires will never bring satisfaction, but godliness, serving others in faith, loving others, persevering through troubles coming our way, and having a gentle spirit is contentment. All these come to us through faith, trusting in Jesus—fruits of faith. Because the Holy Spirit has started this faith in us, we are set apart to fight the good fight and to focus our attention on what matters—our eternal life. So that life is the life that matters and why we are here.
Lord, please grant us opportunities to share our contentment that comes through faith with those of the world so they, too, will know the hope we have in Jesus. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
When you become dissatisfied with what is coming your way, thank God for the blessings He has given you—food, clothes, and, more importantly, the forgiveness of sins Jesus won for you.