by Jordyn van Gaalen

Blessings of that Which is Eternal

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“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.”
1 Timothy 6:6-8 NIV

Godliness is defined as the quality or practice of conforming to the laws and wishes of God; devoutness and moral uprightness.

Godliness looks like pursuing God, following and obeying His desires, and walking as the Word of God lays out. Our following in Jesus’ footsteps and living a God-focused life in contentment is not only what God desires, it will bring blessings to us. When our daily life reflects the Kingdom of God and we find contentment in our identity and role as God’s redeemed children, we will see fruit in our lives. 

We came with nothing and we will leave this earth with nothing. What does it look like to live in this kind of simplicity? We live in a culture driven by accumulation and materialism. Yet we read in 1 Timothy that if we have our basic needs, as we receive our daily bread, we can be content with that. We always have reason to lift our hands in praise. Rather than chasing after the culture of consumption, let us dwell in the simple treasures.

“I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.”
Philippians 4:12-13 NIV

The secret to living contentedly is found in the One who grants all strength. Living in contentment as we acknowledge that treasures of this earth fade away. Our relationship with Christ Jesus, our eternal home with our Father, and people created uniquely by God are what matter most. The earth will fade away, and with it all our accumulations and material wealth. But God is eternal. We can be content as we fix our eyes to the Kingdom of God, in our everyday life and the life to come. Let us lift our hands today in thanksgiving for the basic needs God has provided for us and for the blessings from that which is eternal. 

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado