You do understand that content and complacent are not the same thing? Complacent, in my world, is something to be avoided at all cost. But have you learned to be content in all situations? I haven’t. I do work on this but I’m definitely not there. From a different perspective, do you live your life grateful? Regardless of your circumstances, are you grateful for who you are, who populates your world, where you are on your life’s journey? I’m not convinced that we can live contented if we aren’t simultaneously grateful.
“…for I have learned to be content [and self-sufficient through Christ, satisfied to the point where I am not disturbed or uneasy] regardless of my circumstances. I know how to get along and live humbly [in difficult times], and I also know how to enjoy abundance and live in prosperity. In any and every circumstance I have learned the secret [of facing life], whether well-fed or going hungry, whether having an abundance or being in need. I can do all things [which He has called me to do] through Him who strengthens and empowers me [to fulfill His purpose—I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency; I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses me with inner strength and confident peace.]
(Philippians 4:11-13, AMP)
When I read about Paul’s life and all that he encountered and endured and then read his words, that he has learned to be content… How?! It really isn’t the easiest state to attain. However, in reading on he says (vs. 13): “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” That’s what most Christians emphasize and focus on. I would suggest that we realize the dichotomous states (ex: humbly / abundance) Paul indicates. His bottom line is something which I do strive to imitate. For me… not there yet.
Perhaps the problem is the definition of the word ‘content’. I think even Webster has difficulty defining the word. As I said earlier, content is not complacent. Content is an action word not passive. Webster indicates that content means satisfied, pleased, gratified. Perhaps. Content in my world of definitions means accepting the condition as it is now but with the realization that it may not continue. Nor may you want it to. Content is the base from which you start. And it is critical to know your own definition of ‘content’ and when there is ‘discontent’.
As for grateful… this is a strong word and Webster only uses simpering (my interpretation) words to define it: appreciative, pleased, delighted. Yes those do define grateful but it is also so much more. Grateful spills over into all areas of one’s life and significantly affects how we look at our lives. Just think of all the emotions you can’t express if you’re grateful and all the emotions that spill out of you that are expressed. Can’s in this case are the opposites of the cant’s. Grateful is the foundation for content.
[Actually, this post is from an entry in my first book, YOU, only slightly re-edited. And I think it is a mindset we all need to be reminded of and act on.]
