if only...

…I knew how to be content. Maybe its just me (please tell me its not ), or maybe its because I’m human, but it seems that I always find myself saying “if only.” You know, the “grass is greener” mentality. My “if only’s” right now (they are very small things, indeed!):

-If only I had a car, then I wouldn’t be stuck at home…my life would be easier and more enjoyable.

-If only we had more money, then I wouldn’t get so stressed going grocery shopping or paying our bills…my life would be easier and more enjoyable.

There have been many different “if only’s” throughout my life. -Some big, some small. With each one, I always learn a lesson about contentment. If only I could really get that lesson of contentment nailed down…my life would be easier and more enjoyable .

Most of all, I am always reminded that true contentment is found ONLY in Christ and His provision of grace. If I am really going to enjoy life, then my hope should rest not in this life but in the life to come. And obviously, for as long as we walk on this earth, things aren’t going to be easy. After all, God, in His divine providence gives us hardships – some small and some big and often both, at different points in life – to make us desire our home in Heaven all the more.

2 Corinthians 9:8, ESV
And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency[1] in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.
[1]Or all contentment

2 Corinthians 12:10, ESV
For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

Philippians 4:11, ESV
Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.

1 Timothy 6:6, ESV
Now there is great gain in godliness with contentment…

1 Timothy 6:8, ESV
But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content.

Hebrews 13:5, ESV
Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”