Lord, I will cultivate what Jeremiah Burroughs, a Puritan of the seventeenth century, called “the rare jewel of Christian contentment.” Contentment is not a stupid lack of awareness or sluggish laziness, but an acceptance of my lot as God’s provision for me. That is “godliness with contentment,” which Paul says results in “great gain” or profit (1 Timothy 6:6, KJV). Contentment is not looking at the bright side or adding up the positives of my situation, but accepting the whole package so that I can say, “I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content” (Philippians 4:11, KJV).
The opposite of contentment, one that I must conquer at all times, is the spirit of murmuring, complaining, and criticizing. A potent negative example is the family of Israel on their way from Egypt to Canaan. No less than twelve times in Exodus 16 and 17 the people “murmured” or “complained” against Moses and Aaron for their lack of food or water. Their murmurings were really expressions of distrust in God, as Moses clearly said, “Your murmurings are not against us, but against the Lord” (Exodus 16:8. KJV). God’s reaction to those multiplied grumblings was one of anger (Psalm 95:8–11).
But should I always be contented? Should I not strive to better myself and my family? Yes, if it is within my means and power, if it is by God’s permission, and if it is not for the sake of pride and glory. Contentment is essentially a denial of my avarice and greed, and a reaffirmation of God’s right to grant me simplicity or abundance as it pleases Him. Above all, I will be contented with God, my chief portion, and will so live as to reflect an appreciation of His goodness.
“So I will bless Thee as long as I live; I will lift up my hands in Thy name. My soul is satisfied as with marrow and fatness, and my mouth offers praises with joyful lips” (Psalm 63:4–5).
Daily with the King 