“But godliness with contentment is great gain.” 1 Timothy 6:6 NIV
Why do we sometimes find ourselves in search of things that the Lord does not desire in our lives? Do we truly trust in him?
Is our mindset that of want, or one of servitude? Is it one of desire, or one of patience and acceptance?
Jesus says “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 NIV
To walk with Christ daily, is to accept the fact that his desires for us are NOT burdensome, not pain laden, and not steeped in darkness. Knowing this can save us from many trials throughout our lifetime. This is exponential, as it then branches out into the lives of those around us.
His desire is to simplify our lives, and the lives of those around us. He knows that while we are in this world we will face difficulties. He says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 NIV
Our Lord wants us not only to follow his commands, but in our fellowship with him, to be “content” being one of his children. When we try to force things, or “make things happen” on our own, we wind up feeling down, alone, and empty. If we truly trust in him, we will be content in all that he provides. We then know that anything more or less than he provides may cause the emptiness in our lives that our Heavenly Father does NOT desire. This principal can lead us to see our lives and the lives of those around us in a completely different light.
When you awake each morning, spend time with him in prayer, in his word, and in recognizing his hand in all that goes on around us. Try to accept the fact that he knows our needs, above our desires. His desire is that we accept his plan for us in this life, and we enjoy the riches it will bring.
It is written. ”In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” Proverbs 16:9 NIV
Let us begin each day, asking the Lord to reveal to us exactly how we should serve him that day. Then let Him establish all of our steps. We will learn to be content in our own godliness!
Praise our Lord and God Jesus, today!
Love one another…
Barnabas
Special thanks for this guest submission by Barnabas.