EMBRACING CONTENTMENT

Dear reader,

Can you believe it’s already the first day of September? Didn’t we start the year just yesterday? 😒

I genuinely hope that the year has been kind to you.

As for me, I’ve been on quite the journey lately. Life has thrown its mix of highs and lows my way. And just like you, I’m learning, growing, and leaning on my faith as I navigate this adventure.

Speaking of adventure, how was your August? Did you find joy in the simple moments, embrace new opportunities, or maybe overcome some hurdles?

I’d love to hear all about it. So when you’re done reading, tell me all about it in the comments section.

Today, I’ll be writing to you about something I dealt with growing up….. CONTENTMENT

As a young girl, I always worried that I didn’t have as much as my friends did.

“Why do I have different shoes from that of my classmates? Why isn’t my hair as long as hers? Why can’t my dad drive me to school? Why am I always walking?”

I always wanted what others had. So, I compared myself with my friends and I was always dissatisfied.

In a world constantly flooded with images of success, beauty, and achievements, it is all too easy to fall into the trap of comparison.

As Christians, we are called to a different standard; one of contentment, humility, and love.

So, how do we kill comparison and embrace contentment?

1. Recognize the source of comparison.

Comparison often stems from a place of insecurity and pride. Remember the words of Galatians 1:10:

“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.” — Galatians 1:10 NIV

‭‭By shifting our focus from man’s approval to God’s approval, we can gradually break free from the trap of comparison.

2. Embrace your uniqueness.

Psalms 139:4 reminds us that we are beautifully and wonderfully made.

Each person is uniquely designed by God. Our talents, appearance, and life experiences are all part of His intricate plan.

Instead of comparing, let’s celebrate our individuality and embrace the purpose God has for each of us.

3. Cultivate Gratitude.

In our last article, Koko and I listed cultivating gratitude as one of the ways to boost your faith in the midst of a storm, you can read about it here.

Gratitude for what we have diminishes the desire to constantly compare ourselves to others. When we focus on the blessings in our lives, we cultivate contentment and a heart that is receptive to God’s peace.

“But godliness with contentment is great gain.” — 1 Timothy‬ ‭6‬:‭6‬ ‭NIV‬‬

4. Set your affections.

Colossians 3:2 advises us to

“Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things.”

Keeping our focus on eternal values helps us see beyond worldly success and fleeting comparisons. Our ultimate goal is to live in alignment with God’s will and to glorify Him in all that we do.

By aligning ourselves with these principles and allowing words from the scriptures to shape our thoughts and actions, we can break free from the chains of comparison and experience the fullness of joy that God intends for us.

What will you be doing differently to ensure you stay content this month?

Share it with me in the comment section. I’d like to hear from you.

Till I write to you again, I wish you a month full of joy and endless possibilities!

All my love,

Oluwabukola 💛