I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how-to live-in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:12-13

Gratitude contributes to contentment. Many people associate gratitude with happiness, and there might be a connection, but gratitude takes us to a deeper place that is peaceful and satisfying, where we don’t want or need anything more. Paul speaks of this in his letter to the church in Philippi. He concludes that he can be content, whatever the circumstances may be, through God, who gives him the necessary strength.

What Is True Contentment?

Have you heard about contentment, and about what it means to be content? Contentment means to be at ease on the inside, regardless of circumstances on the outside. It has to do with an inner trust and dependence upon God as we rest peacefully and thankfully in our present circumstances. It means to be okay where I am until I get to where I want to go. That clarification is critical because too many people assume that contentment means to give up the desire to go any further in life or experience a change in status of relationships, finances or employment. To let all of your desires go reduces the spirit and soul to a mere robotic presence.

We have been created in the image of God and as such, have within us both the ability and desire to create, expand and grow. Paul wrote, “Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need” (Philippians 4:11-12).

I understand that contentment can be elusive. It’s not something we naturally possess. That’s why Paul informed us in the book of Philippians that he had to learn contentment. He had to grow out of feelings of discontentment through various life lessons. Life is a master instructor, and those who pay attention can gain from the many lessons it has to teach. 

Contentment is not complacency and it is rarely learned when things are going great. The secret of contentment is not wanting or having more. It is, as Paul suggests, to actually want what you have, and to realize that God has given you all that you need. We can feel confident in Him. Jesus Christ is your Creator and your God, and He takes care of you all the time.