Teach Them to Be Content

BIBLE MEDITATION

“I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.” Philippians 4:11

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT

One of the most valuable things you can learn for yourself—and teach your children—is contentment. Let your home ring with love, laughter, conversation, fun, and be content with the simpler things of life.

You say, “Well, I want my kids to have things I never had, things my dad never gave me.” Okay. But are you giving them the things your dad did give you: the desire to work, honesty, decency, learning to get along with the basics, and contentment? Would to God we’d get this in our hearts.

What is contentment? It is an inner sufficiency that keeps us at peace, in spite of outward circumstances. Paul taught his son in the faith, Timothy, “Godliness with contentment is great gain” (1 Timothy 6:6).

In Philippians 4:11, Paul says contentment must be learned. Develop contentment within your children, and you will be strengthening their character. Teach them to trust the Lord and be humbly grateful. Families need to learn to thank God. God has been so good to you.

ACTION POINT

Is your family a God-centered family? It would be good for you to get a family diary and write in it the blessings of God. Sit down and rehearse with your children day after day after day the things that God has done for them.

LWF Dr. Adrian Rogers