Biblical contentment can be explained as an inward peace and satisfaction that comes from trusting in God’s sovereignty, not from external circumstances. It is a state of being “at ease” with God’s provision, which requires faith, prayer, and a focus on spiritual rather than material concerns. Biblical contentment is not passive apathy or laziness, but an active state of gratitude and assurance that God is at work for good, leading to a settled, joyful spirit.
We read what Paul wrote in Philippians 4:11-12 (ISV) I am not saying this because I am in any need, for I have learned to be content in whatever situation I am in. I know how to be humble, and I know how to prosper. In each and every situation I have learned the secret of being full and of going hungry, of having too much and of having too little.
Can we say this? Can we say that we are content in every situation? Oh yes, when we have plenty we are content, but what about when we don’t? What about when we don’t have enough? Enough money to pay that bill, enough time to accomplish that task, enough health, enough friends, enough whatever. Can we be content then? Let me give you some insight. Do you know where it is believed that Paul was when he wrote Philippians? It is believed that he was in prison in Rome. He is in prison writing that he was content. This contentment is not a pick yourself up by your own bootstraps contentment. No this comes from faith in Jesus and knowing that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28 KJV).
I will give you some advice here. One thing that can affect your contentment is expecting God to work in a certain way or time frame. When He doesn’t do it according to the way you expect it can greatly affect your contentment and faith. What you can do is expect God to work it out the way that He sees fit and however that may be, be content with.
You may be thinking that you don’t know if you can do this. By yourself you cannot, but what Paul wrote doesn’t stop there. He writes in the very next verse I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me (Philippians 4:13 KJV).
Let Jesus give you strength to be content in every situation. Let Him give you peace, and the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7 NET).
1 Timothy 6:6 KJV But godliness with contentment is great gain.