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Be Content - 1 Tim. 6:8
Be Content - 1 Tim. 6:8
Being a faithful disciple is often difficult because the demands of such are contrary to the way the world thinks! We WERE of the world but are now trying to follow the teaching of Jesus. As we read and learn, we are confronted with a whole new way of thinking. (cp. The many demands of this in the New Testament, such as Rom. 12:1-2; Eph. 4:17-20).
This chapter has several points that require real introspection. For example: “If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content.” (1 Timothy 6:8). Having lived my whole life here in America, I have become used to having more than ‘enough’.
The idea of being content then enters our thinking process. I tend to boil this down to being willing to faithfully serve Jesus even when my world gets turned upside down. As Paul illustrates in his letter to the Philippian church: “(11) Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. (12) I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.” (Philippians 4:11-12)
AND again: “Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ's sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:10)
I find this concept of contentment to be a daily challenge. In simple terms, this often requires me to simply say NO to my desires. This is a basic question then of who really is the Lord of my life? And your answer to yourself and Jesus is?...
Hugh DeLong
