Finding Contentment

My daughter needed a band-aid for a cut on her finger.  I knew it would only be a matter of time before my two-year-old appeared asking for one, too.  And within minutes, he stood before me trying to show me his boo-boo.  I’m not sure that I ever saw it, but I granted his wish for the band-aid anyway, and off he went to play. 

I was left wondering, why we always want what someone else has.  I see evidence of it almost daily in my kids.  But what about me?  If I’m truly honest, there are times that I long for what others have. I dream of a beautiful kitchen or spacious yard or do I even dare admit it – a ministry that’s thriving and successful  (based on numbers and other worldly measures).

Maybe you understand my longings.  Perhaps you want a promotion, or a new house, or a different spiritual gift. The reality is God has a perfect plan for you and for me but they don’t look anything alike.  He’s created each of us with a unique set of skills and experiences that equip us to do different things.  Neither is better than the other, but both are for a specific purpose. 

So, how do learn contentment and accept God’s chosen path for us?

It begins with our heart and our attitude.  When we turn our attention towards God, our desires will become aligned with His. Ask Him what He wants for you… and listen for His answer.  He’ll reveal it through His Word and His Spirit if we’re open to His leading. Let’s stop striving for what others have and find contentment in wanting what God wants – His best for us!  I don’t want to miss God’s blessings for me because I was too busy trying to gain what someone else had.

Direct me in the path of your commands, for there I find delight.  Psalm 119:35

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