Contentment: Saints should Exhibit in Their Respective Callings
Jump to: Torrey'sSubtopicsTerms
Topical Encyclopedia
Contentment is a virtue that is highly esteemed within the Christian faith, reflecting a heart that is at peace with God's providence and sovereign will. It is an attitude of satisfaction and gratitude, regardless of one's circumstances, and is a testament to a believer's trust in God's provision and timing. The Bible provides numerous exhortations and examples that encourage saints to cultivate contentment in their respective callings.

Biblical Exhortations to Contentment

The Apostle Paul, in his epistle to the Philippians, provides a profound insight into the nature of contentment. He writes, "I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. I am accustomed to any and every situation—to being filled and being hungry, to having plenty and having need. I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength" (Philippians 4:12-13). Here, Paul emphasizes that contentment is not dependent on external circumstances but is rooted in the strength provided by Christ.

Similarly, in his first letter to Timothy, Paul advises, "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and neither can we carry anything out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with these" (1 Timothy 6:6-8). This passage underscores the sufficiency of basic necessities and the futility of material accumulation, encouraging believers to find contentment in simplicity and godliness.

Contentment in Various Callings

The call to contentment extends to all areas of life and vocation. In the context of marriage, the writer of Hebrews exhorts, "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, for God has said: 'Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you'" (Hebrews 13:5). This assurance of God's presence and provision is a foundation for contentment in familial and relational settings.

For those in positions of servitude or employment, the Apostle Paul instructs, "Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear and sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ" (Ephesians 6:5). While the cultural context of slavery differs from modern employment, the principle remains applicable: believers are to serve faithfully and contentedly, recognizing their ultimate service is to Christ.

The Example of Contentment in Scripture

The Bible provides numerous examples of individuals who exemplified contentment in their callings. Job, despite his immense suffering and loss, declared, "The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD" (Job 1:21). His unwavering faith and acceptance of God's will serve as a powerful testament to contentment amidst trials.

King David, in his psalms, often expressed a heart of contentment and trust in God. In Psalm 23, he famously writes, "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want" (Psalm 23:1). This declaration of trust in God's provision and guidance reflects a deep-seated contentment in God's care.

The Spiritual Discipline of Contentment

Contentment is not merely a passive acceptance of circumstances but an active spiritual discipline. It requires a conscious effort to align one's desires with God's will and to cultivate gratitude for His blessings. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Colossians, encourages believers to "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, for to this you were called as members of one body. And be thankful" (Colossians 3:15). This peace and thankfulness are integral to the practice of contentment.

In conclusion, contentment is a hallmark of a mature Christian faith, reflecting a deep trust in God's sovereignty and goodness. It is a virtue that saints are called to exhibit in every aspect of their lives, serving as a witness to the sufficiency of Christ and the peace that comes from resting in His promises.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
1 Corinthians 7:20
Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Resources
What does the Bible say about finding satisfaction in life? | GotQuestions.org

What is the difference between envy and jealousy, biblically speaking? | GotQuestions.org

What does the Bible say about covetousness? | GotQuestions.org

Contentment: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible ConcordanceBible DictionaryBible EncyclopediaTopical BibleBible Thesuarus
Contentment: Paul
Top of Page
Top of Page