Being Content is Possible

Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5

Many of us were raised to possess a highly competitive spirit. In fact, always striving to make greater achievements is viewed as a strength. “Never settle for less or you will never be successful.” Unfortunately, the standard that we measure success against is always entangled in the web of financial gain. Does God expect His royal priesthood to be impoverished? Is there anything wrong with being comfortable in life?

Now there is great gain in godliness with contentment, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content. 1 Timothy 6:6-8

Historically, most Christian believers have been on the lower end of the hierarchy of economic wealth. Never before has the prosperity message been preached, accepted and pursued on a global level in the Protestant churches. The 21st century has provided us with endless opportunities to achieve success. At what cost? We have become discontented and impatient. No longer do we pray and wait for God’s will to be done in our lives.

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Jeremiah 29:11 KJV

For I know the plans that I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for prosperity and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 20:11 NASB

Something is not right! The updated translations of the Bible have changed the wording of God’s original promise. Discontent–the desire for more has led us to accept modern changes to the Word of God. Like the Israelites who loved pagan traditions, many have embraced the world and its pleasures.

How has the change in mindset among believers affected the financial status of the church?

A number of Pastors have disclosed that the sacrificial giving of tithes and offerings has significantly declined. Adaptation of worldly values has us weary from running the race to pursue career growth, and endless opportunities to increase our tangible assets. Yes, our money is invested in individual stocks to receive the highest potential returns, or spent on frivolous items, which leaves our churches in a financial crisis.

Have you stopped attending church to avoid giving money? You are not alone. This is an article that addresses a popular question from today’s church members, “Is it Okay to Give My Time Instead of My Money?” https://www.ramseysolutions.com/budgeting/giving-time-vs-giving-money

Distractions have caused us to lose sight of our spiritual duties–to be disciples of Jesus is our purpose on this Earth.  

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen. Matthew 28:19-20.

He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God? Micah 6:8

Prayer: God, we have lost our spiritual focus. We pray for forgiveness and ask you to reveal the changes we need to make. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen. © 2021 Sonya Johnson, Faithful Fishers and Woman, You Are Loved by God Ministries