Apostle Paul told the Philippians, “I have learned the secret of being content” (Philippians 4:12a NIV). Yes, it is a secret. How to be content is a hidden knowledge that evades many. Paul “learned” it. Maybe we can too.
The secret to contentment is not on how much you have.
Both the rich and the poor can be discontent. Paul knew it when he continued, “I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.” The rich thinks if he acquires more he will be happier. The poor thinks if only he has more he will be happier.
Listening to a pastor’s preaching, it hit me. The opposite of contentment is not discontentment, but covetousness, greed and materialism. Ecclesiastes 5:10 NIV says, “Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless.”
I have lived that life before. Discontentment has robbed me of simple joys. When I have plenty, instead of being grateful, I was dissatisfied. When I am in need, I focus on what I do not have and get myself into debt. Worries are ever before me blocking my view of good things I would have enjoyed. Being in want is stressful. Greed leads to conflicts.
The secret to contentment is to learn what to do with what you have.
Paul realized it and taught the secrets. We must stop comparing what we have with what others have (2 Corinthians 10:12-13). We must take pleasure with and celebrate whatever we have (1 Timothy 6:6-10). And, we should be willing to give to others what we have (1 Timothy 6:17-19). These are the secrets towards contentment. Now we know.