Contentment (Part II)

Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: Hebrews 4:11

Contentment (According to Strong’s; Hebrew 2974): to begin, make a beginning, show willingness, undertake to do, be pleased, be determined, to resolve, to agree to, and to accept an invitation.

In the last devotional, I shared about Paul’s passion and his uncompromising focus in sharing Christ. At the same time, he was not concerned about his lack or his plenty. He had learned to be content.

It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, Philippians 1:15-18

Paul was also content in his work and ministry.  Paul’s desire was to preach Christ and Him crucified! He was not concerned about those who tried to outshine him and compete with His ministry. Paul’s passion gave him a narrow focus that allowed his criteria for contentment to be simple and uncomplicated.

In every environment, it is a matter of time before a pecking order is established. Sometimes, the leaders are aware of it and encourage it, and, at other times, it is done subtly and in a manipulative manner. Nonetheless, the affect is the same. People begin to lose sight of their mission, and they begin to focus on outshining others or being concerned about being outshone by others.  This was even true in Jesus’ circle.

The carnal nature is bent on selfish ambition and competition. If we feed it, there is always a new person that has to be competed against. Competition causes a political spirit that leads to division and cliques. An environment of competition is not conducive to contentment. 

Right now our government is plagued with competition and division. Each party wants to protect its interests and ensure that the other side is invalidated and looks evil. When these politicians began their political career 20-30 years ago, most likely, they came with the intent to serve America’s interests. However, after all these years, their focus has changed. There is a continual division, backbiting, and undermining each other’s work. If you read or watch the news, you will be saddened by everything that is going wrong. 

Paul in simplicity of his devotion for Christ and recognizing that all of that striving was rubbish compared to the surpassing knowledge of God, did not care what others were doing. As long as they were preaching Christ, he rejoiced in it whether their motive was pure or not. 

How do you relate to others? Do you have a tendency to compare yourself to others? Do others feel that you are competing with them? How do you handle those who compete with you? If we desire to be content, we need to renew our minds and habits in this area.