GODLINESS WITH CONTENTMENT

GREAT GAIN

I would like to start off today's blog with a few questions:

1. What is your definition of godliness?
2. What is your definition of contentment? 
3. What brings you contentment?
4. What are the most important things to you in life?

 As you contemplate on your answers take a look at the following scripture:

1 Timothy 6:6-11(KJV)

But godliness with contentment is great gain.
For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.
And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.
For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.

Many today allow covetousness to be the root of their gain and then it interferes with godly contentment.  They fall into the snares set up for those who are not content and breeds lusts and other evils.  Men and women of God are cautioned to flee themselves from these temptations.

TODAY'S FOCUS:  FOLLOW AFTER RIGHTEOUSNESS

While it is the love of money and not money that is the root of all evil, a godly person with a contented heart will follow after righteousness and the things that will bring spiritual gain.

In your quest for gain and contentment ask yourself...
Am I following lusts or righteousness?
Am I pursuing only the things of the flesh? 
What things I am pursuing to bring spiritual gain?

You can know whether the pursuit is evil or righteous by your motives and the fruits that your gain produce.  If you are a follower of righteousness you will produce the fruits of love, joy, peace, faith, patience, kindness and a good temperament because righteousness produces fruits that are of the spirit and not of the flesh.  (Galatians 5:22-23)

When you follow righteousness, it will also demonstrate that you are of Christ and that you are walking in the spirit. (Galatians 5:24-25)

You will also remain in a position of humility. You will be patient when you face day to day challenges and when faced with tribulations.  Great gain is found in inner peace, and you will be trusting even when your outside circumstances are challenged.    

Remember, it takes a combination of godliness and contentment to acquire greatness.  If it's only money that you are after, it will ensnare you.  Your lustful desires will bring forth fruit of unrighteousness, cause you to err from the faith and engulf you with many sorrows.  Learn to be content and live in righteousness.  If you flee the temptations you will produce the fruits that will bring you inner peace.  Don't live to regret, live a righteous life.

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel