One of the most challenging statements in the Scriptures is that “godliness with contentment is great gain.” Perhaps this is because the combination of those two words seems a bit unusual. But the more we think about it, the more we realize how contentment actually is a crucial spiritual value, even a mark of a truly godly person.
Recently I have been thinking about how this relates to a proper and ongoing sense of the providence of God. Reflecting on — and resting in — the truth that our God is in control of all things, all events, all circumstances; and that He orchestrates everything for His glory AND our good, is a key to developing a contented spirit. Octavius Winslow makes this point in commenting on Psalm 31:15, (My times are in Thy hand). “Learn to be content with your present lot, with God’s dealings with you, and His disposal of you. You are just where His providence has, in its inscrutable but all-wise and righteous decision, placed you. It may be a position painful, irksome, trying, but it is right. Only aim to glorify Him in it.” Winslow goes on to challenge us in applying this truth: “Wherever you are placed, God has a work for you to do, a purpose through you to be accomplished in which He blends your happiness with His glory.” May we learn to trust our wise and loving God by learning, as the apostle Paul did, to be content in all circumstances.
