In Part 1, we looked at what contentment is not. Today, we will look at what contentment is and how to become content.

We need the mind of Christ.  Philippians 2:5-8: “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.”

Let’s not look at what many are seeking, but at what God says in His Word. Make up your mind to consider three important truths:

I. A CLOSE RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST

Try anything you want, but only the Saviour brings contentment. Paul points out several times the necessity of dying to self. Think of the sufferings of Christ and the many who have known Christ for years, but have a light attitude toward His suffering.

Many will not acknowledge the reality of Christ, yet He makes Himself known to them in so many ways, even our calendar starts with Christ.

  • Think about your daily fellowship with Christ. John 15:14: “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.”
  • Think about the fact that Jesus is coming again.

II. A CONSISTENT FAITH THAT GOD WILL SUPPLY YOUR EVERY NEED

1 Timothy 6:17-19: “Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.”

Philippians 4:19: “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”

We must start with work on our part. 2 Thessalonians 3:10-11: “For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies.”

I believe that my God will supply every need we have, but I also believe that we must supply the conditions:

  • He will supply if I am honest in paying my tithe, bills, etc.
  • He will supply if I ask Him.  James 4:2-3, “Ye have not…”
  • He will supply if I will share it with others.

The sin of selfishness will sever our prayer line, Philippians 2:21: “For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ’s.”

III. A CATEGORICAL DESIRE TO HELP OTHERS

That is, an unconditional desire to help others, without expecting anything in return. An important lesson for every Christian to learn is that personal contentment will grow as we learn to help others. There will be contentment even as we are burdened about others even while lacking some of the so-called “nicer things” in life.

Notice what Paul wrote on the subject of others in Romans 15:1-7.

  • Help the shaky Christians.
  • Help the skeptical Christians. I can help others by being strong in my own conflicts in life.
  • Help the suffering Christians God sends your way.
  • Help the saved and those without Christ.

It is absolutely true that contentment comes from our close and intimate relationship with Christ, a consistent faith that He will supply our every need and give us a desire to help others.

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Hans Nikoley, GSBC Staff

Bro. Nikoley emigrated from Germany to the United States with his family at age 13. He served full time in the Nevada Air National Guard for six years. At age 32, He was saved, and in 1977, he graduated from Bible College. He pastored for over 31 years, 27 of them at Pomerado Road Baptist Church in Poway, California. Bro. Nikoley has served at Golden State Baptist College in the Bible Department and also as the Student Employment Director since 2007. He and his wife Mary have two children and have been married for 58 years.