How To Be Really Content

Posted on July 1, 2019 by America's Keswick in Freedom Fighters

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. 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. Philippians 4:12

There seems to be so much discontent in our world today. I am sure you have noticed it – and maybe you have been there, or may you are there right now.

Discontentment with your job, your finances, your car, your house. Maybe you have been spending too much time focusing in on the many things you don’t have, could have, should have instead of the many blessings you already have.

Writing coach and editor, Karen Willoughby, gives some great insights into how to really be content:

1. Take the focus off yourself. As long as you think about your personal contentment, it will elude you.
2. Live free of debt. Financial and emotional debt keep you trapped in the past.
3. Spend some time alone. You need quiet time away from the hectic activities of life so you can find the peace of mind that comes with mere silence.
4. Do something special for someone who is older. Respect for and generosity towards those with more life experience bring great satisfaction.
5. Keep young children in your life. Children can teach you much about innocence, hope, joy, and simplicity.
6. Get involved with a worthwhile cause. When you volunteer for something bigger than you, you realize that you can make a difference.
7. Avoid negative people. Negative people can steal contentment from the best of situations.
8. Discipline yourself. Self-discipline gives you freedom. It helps you accomplish and enjoy those things that are truly important to you.
9. Understand the other persons point of view. This will dissipate negative and energy wasting emotional responses. It can also give you compassion, sensitivity, and sometimes, even wisdom.
10. Treat yourself. Occasionally it is nice to relax and remind yourself that you are person of value and worth.
11. Be thankful for what you have. The pursuit of pleasure is short-lived and never brings long-term satisfaction.
12. Ask for advice. There is much you do not know, and seeking wisdom and/or direction from those around you can bring joys you never expected.
13. Avoid known temptations. There are things in life that seem attractive, but they are actually dangerous and destructive. Flee them.

And I will add #14 – Learn to say no! No is a complete sentence. It is acceptable to say no. Learn to say no to the good and better so that you can learn to say yes to the best things. It will pay rich dividends.

Looking at this list, where would you rate yourself from discontent — to content?

Relentlessly pursuing Christ,

Bill Welte, President/CEO America’s Keswick

Written by Bill Welte, President/CEO of America’s Keswick: Bill has been married to his childhood sweetheart for 40+ years and has four married kids and 11 amazing grandkids. He loves music and is an avid reader.

Think About This: Contentment makes poor men rich; discontentment makes rich men poor. Benjamin Franklin

The Daily Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 13-15, Acts 4:1-22| You can download our 2018 Daily Bible Reading Plan by clicking here

This Week’s Verse to Memorize: Therefore, as through one man’s offense judgment came to all men, resulting in condemnation, even so through one Man’s righteous act the free gift came to all men, resulting in justification of life. – Romans 5:18

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the doctrinal and theological views held by America’s Keswick.