Would you describe yourself as content? Most of the time I think my answer would be yes. But then I catch myself thinking things like, "It'd be nice if my husband's paycheck was a little bigger," or, "I really need a new fill-in-the-blank," or, "Why doesn't anybody notice all I do around here?" Sound familiar?
Thoughts like these quickly betray the true state of my heart, a state of discontent. Discontent develops attitudes of "if only" and "why me"—roots of bitterness and pride. Discontent distorts the word of God to accommodate selfish, sinful desires. Discontent despises the Giver by rejecting (or idolizing) His blessings. At its very core, discontentment is a rejection of God and His rule over our lives.
Ungodly cravings always accompany a discontented heart, so it's important to use discernment when examining our desires. Recognizing when discontentment has us down enables us to repent, or get our hearts right with God. Let's take a look at some of the cravings of a discontented heart.
A discontented heart craves recognition. When we lust after power, fame, or the praise of others, we're really rejecting God's approval and praise. Jesus said, "How can you believe if you accept praise from one another, yet make no effort to obtain the praise that comes from the only God?” (Jn. 5:44). Scripture also tells us, "Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men" (Eph. 6:7, emphasis added).
When discontentment has us down we need to ask ourselves, Am I seeking the approval of others when I serve, or the approval of God? If we truly serve as unto the Lord, our hearts will find contentment in His divine praise and approval.
A discontented heart craves control. God's bold, straightforward commands for how we ought to live can make us downright uncomfortable, especially when we would rather be calling the shots! Paul describes those who are discontent with God's Word and instruction as proud, obsessed with disputes, and destitute of the truth (1 Timothy 6:4–5, NKJV). The desire for control is a rejection of God's authority—both in His Word and our lives.
When discontentment has us down we need to ask ourselves, Am I fighting God for control over this Scripture or circumstance I'm not pleased with? If we humbly embrace God's authority, our hearts will find contentment both in His absolute sovereignty and in His clearly expressed will.
A discontented heart craves security. Security comes in many forms: money, friends, family, love, intelligence, possessions, food and drink. But that which comes from faith in Jesus Christ outlasts all temporal securities; it is eternal, unshakeable. Christ said, "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? ...But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well" (Matt. 6:25, 33, emphasis added).
When discontentment has us down we need to ask ourselves, Am I trusting in something or someone other than God to meet my needs? If we keep an eternal perspective, our hearts will find contentment in the security God has already provided through Jesus.
A discontented heart craves entertainment. Newer. Better. More. These demands are the mantra of our culture—a culture that craves entertainment. But God is not here to entertain us, and we reject Him by complaining when His provision doesn't meet our standards. When the Israelites rejected God's provision of manna in the desert by desiring other, more exciting menu options, He took it personally saying, "...you have rejected the Lord, who is among you..." (Num. 11:20, emphasis added).
When discontentment has us down we need to ask ourselves, Am I rejecting what God has provided simply because I'm disappointed or bored with it? If we can simplify our desires, our hearts will find contentment in how, when, and what God chooses to provide.
Women of Christ, let's take care to guard our hearts against the temptation and trap of ungodly cravings, against the foolish and harmful desires that plunge us into ruin and destruction (1 Tim. 6:9). Instead, let us pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness (1 Tim. 6:11)!
May we put our hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment, and take hold of the life that is truly life (1 Tim. 6:17, 19). And as we do these things may we come to know that truth which puts our restless hearts at peace: Godliness with contentment is great gain!
Lord, we pray for hearts of contentment right now. Help us to see with spiritual eyes those ungodly desires that put our hearts in a state of discontent. And in those moments when we crave recognition, control, security or entertainment, reach down and gently turn our hearts toward You: the One who sees us and knows us by name; the One whose capable hands hold our lives; the One who knows what we need before we even ask; the One who has provided us with eternal life through Christ Jesus! In Jesus’ name, amen.
Reflection Questions
- I personally struggle with each and every one of these ungodly cravings, sometimes on a daily basis! But most recently I’ve been battling with the desire for recognition. Do you find you wrestle with one of these cravings more frequently than the others? If so, which one?
- How can you train yourself to recognize when discontentment is trying to creep into your heart? What should you do in those moments?
- Jesus promises us peace: “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (Jn. 14:27). Where do you need peace in your life today?