Word for Word

by Rev. Lynn Groe

1 Timothy 6:6 – “Godliness with contentment is great wealth!”
Like so many words, we have lost the meaning of contentment! We have somehow come up with the notion that contentment is incompatible with success. We mistakenly believe that contentment is obtained only if we stop striving, or stop moving ahead, and who wants to do that? We believe that we will be content someday, perhaps when we retire. If you are an average person trying to get ahead in the world, contentment is probably the last thing you are striving for, and yet we all long for contentment. Because at it’s core, contentment is peace of mind and happiness, with little stress.  
Still we forge ahead, we dive headlong into the world’s busy cycle of overspending, overcommitting and overworking, all for the sake of happiness, peace of mind, and satisfaction of obtaining more and more. But we are only kidding ourselves because consuming, striving, and accumulating will never bring happiness. They only bring anxiety, worry, unhappiness and ineffectiveness.  
So let your mind slow down and reflect today on the qualities of true contentment in your life. Don’t give in to the world’s definition - being content doesn’t mean being lazy. Nor is being content equal with being lowly or meek. There is tremendous power in contentment in this moment, because contentment frees you from stress. It is possible to be both content and ambitious if your ambition comes from the desire to be of service, to help others.  
Someone once said, “If you can’t get to sleep for one night, check your pillow. If you can’t get to sleep for two nights, check your mattress. If you can’t get to sleep for three nights, check your conscience!” We are owned by the things that we possess. It would be beneficial for our lives if we didn’t get everything we wanted.  
If this is a busy week for you, try to relax in the midst of your busyness. Learn to relax without feeling guilty. Enjoy your happiness; treasure the joy this moment brings. Cherish the moments of tranquillity.  
Dear God, help me to be content this day with all the blessings you have bestowed upon me. Help me to see your presence in the midst of my life. Amen.