Comparison is the Death of Contentment

Why is it so hard to be content? It's a simple concept, really. Be happy with what you have. Yet I frequently find myself playing a game of comparison where the only loser is me and everyone else has seemingly won. With all the talk of the "1%" it's hard not to dwell on what we don't have and feel justified in it. The line between "needs" and "wants" has been painfully blurred. Turn on the news and you will see a host of people telling us how angry we should be about what we don't have.

I have fallen for it lock, stock and barrel.

There is really no way for me to write about contentment without sounding like an envious, thankless fool, which frankly, at times I am. I have a nice house, a car that runs, a great husband and kids, plenty of food and water, plenty of stuff. I know plenty of people who face real challenges with more faith and thankfulness than I do on a daily basis.

My priorities have needed some realigning. I've known it for awhile and have been trying to adjust my heart, but this week the lesson finally seemed to resonate. I hope it sticks this time (but please don't judge me too harshly if it doesn’t).

The big take away from church for me Sunday wasn't the sermon (sorry, Jasen. It was awesome though!!) but the memory verse in primary church.

...for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. Phil 4:11b

In fact all of Philippians 4 is a beautiful reminder of God's provision and encouragement to be content in all situations. I realize the absurdity of any discontent I may feel, trust me. I'd venture to guess that I am not alone, though. Contentment can be elusive, even when we have much to be content about. Sometimes especially when we have much to be content about.

God is good. He provides in abundance. We can be content in all circumstances, even when the world tells us we shouldn't be.