I used to play a lot of golf. However, I found myself spending time and money getting frustrated. I never was satisfied with my results. Once I left the course frustrated with a score of 75 because I remembered 3 putts that just missed keeping me from scoring even par or 72. I confess struggles with the demon of perfectionism since I was a kid. There is merit in always wanting to improve and get better but frustration and despair results from never being satisfied with the current situation. The Apostle Paul shares a remarkable word in his letter to the Philippian church as he says, “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” What a gift and goal for all to learn to be content no matter whatever the circumstances. Attaining this stage in life was even more remarkable considering these words were penned in prison. Paul had not committed a crime, other than preaching truth when people in power wanted to avoid dealing with God’s truth.
The world in which we live promotes dissatisfaction with our lives. We are constantly bombarded with newer and better things touted to make our lives more complete if only we would obtain them! When we listen to the world, we compare lifestyles and possessions of others with our own, and often become dissatisfied. If our contentment comes from possessions, activities, or other people, these can be altered or removed. If our contentment comes from our relationship with Christ, there is absolutely nothing that can take that away.
Dr. Henry Blackaby says, “Contentment frees you to enjoy every good thing God has given you. Contentment demonstrates your belief that God loves you and has your best interest in mind. Discontent stems from the sin of ingratitude and a lack of faith that God loves you enough to provide for all that you need. Strive to be grateful for all that God has given you. A grateful heart has no room for envy.”
Envy, ingratitude and desire for things and relationships that we do not have can lead to discontent. We begin to think we deserve more than we have. Scripture reminds us we actually have more than we deserve. Romans 3:23 tells us all we all fall short of what we have been created to be. Romans 6:23 tells us what we earn by falling short is death. The fact that we have breath to express discontent should remind us to be appreciative. Each breath is a gift of grace from God. When we become grateful for what we have rather than focused on what we desire we begin to enjoy the life all around us rather than lose the blessings of the day.
After I learned to enjoy the round of golf rather than be frustrated by the score I found it a nice way to spend some time. I also enjoy time in my kayak. Kayaking gives a good parallel to enjoy life and find contentment on a daily basis, as did Paul, no matter the circumstances. There are three basic rules I read posted on the Snake River. They are as follows; 1. Go with the flow & don’t get addled-lean back. 2. If worse comes, let go of everything you’ll come up. 3. Danger is part of the trip. Enjoy the ride!
When we completely trust all our lives to Christ by faith we can find contentment each day as we go with the flow. When the worst happens we can let go of things we thought we needed and survive as He brings us up. Finally, when we lose anxiety and worry seeking safety and security in things of this world we can find contentment each day. Helen Keller said it this way, “Security is mostly a superstition. It does not exist in nature, nor do the children of men as a whole experience it. Avoiding danger is no safer in the long run than outright exposure. Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.” So don’t get addled-lean back and enjoy the ride.
