The Birthing of Contentment

Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. Hebrews 13:5 (King James Version)

Wanting what I don’t have does much to diminish my peace, joy, and satisfaction. Coveting can go far beyond just a desire for more money or possessions. For me, it can also enter into the area of personalities and relationships. In the midst of all my “wants” I must confront myself with this question: “Do I really believe God is presently giving me everything I need and is best for me?”

There was a time when personalities were an area of covetousness for me. Convinced mine was inferior I longed for the kind others had. My attempts at behavior modification and chameleon tendencies eventually proved futile. Comparing myself to others is a sure way to foster discontent. My whole perspective changed when I began to appreciate and celebrate the personality God chose to instill in me. Allowing God to conform me into the image of Christ will not do away with my personality, it will beautify and enhance it! I will always be an extrovert who enjoys conversations, friendships, and laughter. That is the way I am wired. It is no longer a bone of contention for me because I now receive it as God’s design and desire for me.

God and I are still working on the area of relationships. I struggle the most with dissatisfaction and discontentment when I can’t be in relationship with the ones I want to be or when I want more out of the relationships I do have. Because communication is so easy and instant with cell phones and emails, it feeds a part of me that craves continual connection with people. When I don’t see or hear from someone as often as I would like, my security and satisfaction with that relationship comes under attack. I easily self condemn and question the soundness of the relationship. I am learning both are a tool of the enemy. It is imperative that I see God’s hand in the friendships I have or don’t have. His ultimate desire is for me to have a close relationship with Himself. My deepest friendships should enhance that.

When others are not involved or available I must see that as an invitation to draw closer to Him and fully take in the preciousness of His promise to never leave or forsake me. As I learn to abide in His presence I find a birthing of contentment and a lessening of the aches from the disappointments of life.

Father, continue to touch the places of discontent in me. Your faithful presence is my true life line. Amen.

Let My Words Be Few - Phillips, Craig & Dean
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12z4dvc2kjo&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.