Itz Holistically Wholesome

One morning last week, as I arose from my bed, the word “content” was the first thing that came to my mind. It struck me unexpectedly, almost like a gentle nudge from above. To me, it felt like WHAM—here is your word for the day, let’s fix this. Either ways it got my attention because, immediately, the word consumed my thoughts. So what does it truly mean to be content? I began to reflect on concepts like hope, thankfulness, and making the most of what we have. To ensure I wouldn’t forget, I grabbed an index card and penned down the word along with my thoughts. It became my goal for the day—to practice practical contentment, especially since I believe it was placed on my heart by the Holy Spirit, guiding me towards what the Lord desires.

Soon after, my eldest daughter woke up, and I asked her, “What does being content mean to you?” She replied, “To settle or be in the middle about something, not happy or sad.” Curious, I asked her to look up the word’s meaning online, and the definition she read resonated deeply with me. According to Google, content means “a state of peaceful happiness; satisfied, pleased.” Her understanding shifted, and she added with a chuckle that being content means being happy where you are, regardless of circumstances.

But why would the Lord remind me to be content first thing in the morning? The simple truth is, I often struggle with discontentment, letting my circumstances dictate my happiness. Perhaps this resonates with you too. If I’m not content, then I’m discontented. Let’s explore some synonyms: dissatisfaction, unhappiness, restlessness, worry, and more. These feelings distract us from the blessings in life and can lead us into sin.

What does the Bible say about contentment?

In 1 Timothy 6:6-10, we read, “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” This verse reminds me that true wealth lies in being godly and content with what we have. We brought nothing into this world, and we will take nothing out of it. Learning to be content with food and clothing is a lesson in trusting God’s provision and avoiding the pitfalls of greed.

I believe God wants me—and all of us—to find contentment in His blessings, regardless of our circumstances. He wants us to recognize His goodness, which remains constant even when our situations change. Over the years, I’ve learned through challenges that true contentment comes from relying on God completely.

So, I’m learning to embrace true contentment—a peace that comes from trusting God’s plan and provision. It’s about shifting my focus away from worries and frustrations, knowing that God is in control. Even in my moments of self-discontentment, where I strive to improve for Christ’s sake, I find motivation to grow spiritually and serve others.

As Ellen G. White beautifully wrote in ‘Our Higher Calling,’ “Pure religion brings peace, happiness, contentment; godliness is profitable to this life and the life to come.” Let’s strive for a contentment that is rooted in faith and gratitude, knowing that Godliness with contentment is indeed great gain.

May we all be blessed with true contentment.

God bless you.

---