Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. (1 Tim 6:6 - NLT)
The Rat Race; that is the term to describe a pointless pursuit of things and in the end finding out that ultimately, you haven’t achieved anything that is of value. We are caught up in the hunt for riches which consumes us and takes over our inner most being. It dictates our thinking, directs our actions and steals one of the most precious commodities we have; our time.
This, however, was never the plan. In every man and woman, just as there is an internal need to be loved, there exists an internal need to happy, and wealth brings happiness. Or so we are told. An Australian study has found that once we are above the poverty line, money only makes a small contribution to our level of happiness. It also found that when people reach the average income level, it virtually makes no difference to our happiness. Another study found that even though people are earning more today than ever before in history (because of equal opportunities, minimum wage, raises etc.), general happiness has not increased dramatically. Studies vary as to how many lottery winners go broke after only a few years of winning millions. Most prove that around 75 and 90% file for bankruptcy. Happiness, I believe, can only be obtained through contentment.
This, however, was never the plan. In every man and woman, just as there is an internal need to be loved, there exists an internal need to happy, and wealth brings happiness. Or so we are told. An Australian study has found that once we are above the poverty line, money only makes a small contribution to our level of happiness. It also found that when people reach the average income level, it virtually makes no difference to our happiness. Another study found that even though people are earning more today than ever before in history (because of equal opportunities, minimum wage, raises etc.), general happiness has not increased dramatically. Studies vary as to how many lottery winners go broke after only a few years of winning millions. Most prove that around 75 and 90% file for bankruptcy. Happiness, I believe, can only be obtained through contentment.
For we brought nothing into the world, and obviously we cannot take anything out of the world; but if we have food and clothing, with these we shall be content (satisfied). (1 Tim 6:7-8 - AMP)
The Amplified bible defines contentment in 1 Tim 6:6 as ‘a sense of inward sufficiency’. In other words; the idea that something is enough. That sounds crazy right? I mean, can you really ever have enough? However there are great advantages to being content. Bible commentator Chuck Swindoll, highlights three important benefits of contentment i.e. it allows current enjoyment rather than constant striving, it gives us freedom to recognise and applaud another’s achievements without being overcome by envy and jealousy and it helps us develop a spirit of gratefulness. Just imagine for a second if all the energy you spend on chasing after riches was lifted off your shoulders. That will take at least ten kilos off and a couple of centimetres off your waist line.
But as for you, O man of God, flee from all these things; aim at and pursue righteousness (right standing with God and true goodness), godliness (which is the loving fear of God and being Christlike), faith, love, steadfastness (patience), and gentleness of heart. (1 Tim 6:11)
Let’s get practical. Firstly, count your blessings; you would be amazed at how much you have if you just open your eyes. Many are not lucky enough to be sitting on a chair and reading this blog. Secondly, flee from THE PURSUIT of riches. In other words run away from it, shun it. It is interesting to note however that there is nothing wrong with being rich or making a lot of money. Problems arise when we focus on the creation, and lose sight of the Creator. Lastly, pursue godliness. God knows what you need, and if you strive to be fully satisfied in Him, He will take care of you (Matt 6:31-33). He already has. He is all sufficient.
I would love to see some comments on this one. All relevant comments will be put on my ‘further insights’ page at my discretion, even if you disagree.
With Love
Yunam
