The Power of Thanksgiving - Rich in Contentment

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Gratefulness brings contentment.  

Contentment is defined as "a state of happiness and satisfaction." When a person is grateful (a.k.a. thankful) they are content in what they have.


The apostle Paul wrote in Philippians 4:11-12  "Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.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."

 Being thankful for where we are in life, and for what we have, brings a sense of contentment that cannot be obtained in any other way.  When we let go of 'things' and stressors in our lives, it gives us the freedom to trust in God. When we trust God, we are letting go of the fear of controlling our own lives. We search for things to satisfy a hunger that only God can fulfill when we buy more things, or busy ourselves to the point of exhaustion. When we give thanks for what we have, little or much in whatever it is; material possessions, family and friends, or our health, we begin to see our blessings and learn to be content with them.  God instructs His people to watch what enters into the heart, because what comes out of it can either make or break one's destiny in Him. (Matt 5)  What is entering into your heart? Do you want more 'things' or are you content with what you have?

Lord, give me a grateful heart. I want to be rich in contentment. I want to be content in YOU.

Comments

  1. SarahNovember 14, 2013

    Yes, amen! Struggle with this but the Lord is working on me in scary yet exciting ways - I think 2014 is going to be a very interesting year...in a good way. I feel more hopeful than I have in years. Because I'm hoping not for a change in circumstances or even a change in how I look (as intensely as I desire that) - but a change in my heart. To be content with Him, in Him. Only Him. Thanks, Mindy.

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    Replies
    1. The Howell BlessingsNovember 14, 2013

      Sarah, it's always exciting, even though sometimes scary, when God starts working in our lives and changing the way we've always done things to what he desires of us and in us. I'm glad you are encouraged!

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