Contentment is Great Gain

Written by Douglas Agyapong.

“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 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” (NIV) Phil 4:11-12


We are quick in screaming appellations in gratitude to God when things seem to go on well in life. But when our lives bear imperfections and everything seems to turn upside down, we become reluctant in appreciating Him. In contrast, Paul says a lot may go wrong with him, but he has learnt to be content. To be content is to be pleased and satisfied; not needing more [Merriam-Webster Dictionary]; to be OK with what one has.

You cannot have it all. There will always be flaws. So if your dream is to acquire it all before expressing gratitude to God, that dream will never come true. At every point in life, you have a lot to be thankful for. Be thankful if you were born with/without any physical deformity. Be thankful if you can breathe in and out without any medical assistance. Be thankful if you have the pleasure of feeling the urge to pass out stools and are able to fulfill that urge voluntarily. Be thankful if you can pass out urine. There are some who lack the ability to ease themselves. The list cannot be exhausted but we often overlook these little blessings. For every individual on earth, you will surely find another who is in a worse situation than you to teach you contentment. And still, another who has much more than what you think you so abundantly possess to teach you humility. Whenever you moan, realize that there's someone somewhere who wishes to be like you.

So always pray and believe God for the sweet gifts. A prayer He would invariably answer. But before the goodies arrive, be satisfied now with what you already have and be grateful because He has already done enough.

I once came across a relevant poem. I do not claim authorship of it but acknowledge its writer though I have no idea of his or her identity. I share excerpts of it with you: Today, upon a bus, I saw a very beautiful woman and wished I was as beautiful. When suddenly she rose to leave, I saw her hobble down the aisle. She had one leg and wore a crutch. But as she passed, she passed a smile.Oh God, forgive me when I whine. I stopped to buy some candy. The lad who sold it had such a charm. I talked with him, he seemed so glad. And as I left, he said to me, “I thank you, you’ve been so kind. It’s nice to talk to folks like you. You see,” he said, “I’m blind.” Wow! How come he had so much joy? Oh, God, forgive me when I whine. I've been blessed indeed, the world is mine. Dear reader, don’t forget to say; "Thank you, God" always.


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