Social media is filled with stories and videos of people seemingly overreacting to perceived injustices. Incorrectly processed fast food orders cause people to yell, throw food and even attack the poor employees. Heaven forbid that a driver gets cut off in traffic or has their intended parking spot snatched away.
A huge gap exists between the things we want versus the things we need. A small child perceives everything as a need and cries when these needs are not met. It seems that many people have not matured in distinguishing between wants and needs.
I Timothy 6:6-8 says, “But godliness with contentment is great gain, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content.” Mastering the attitude of contentment brings us great peace in life. We must learn to distinguish between our wants and our needs. Taking control of our emotions when our wants are not satisfied and submitting our desires to God leads to godliness. Peace and godliness are far more valuable in the long run than immediate gratification of our wants.
Contentment, however, is not an easy attribute to obtain nor mature. It requires submitting ourselves and our desires to God. He may choose to give us what we desire. But He may choose to tell us to wait or He may simply say “No”. However, He will always give us what is ultimately the best for us. He is completely trustworthy and is always good to us.
Reluctant Retiree 