In the Scripture we read “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out” (1Timothy 6:6-7). We have the general tendency of searching for something that will make our lives better, something that will result in great gain or profit. We live in a world where the idea of making profit is very appealing. The Stock market for example is about gaining and making profit. Even though it may experience loss sometimes the long run ultimate goal is profit making. When the market is good, investor are happy, the excitement is palpable. Another illustration is Black Friday which is observed in the United States of America in November. Traditionally it’s on the Friday after Thanksgiving. Some people make all the effort and sacrifice needed to get the best deals and bargains available at that time. The long lines and long hours in the cold, snow or rain is worth any great gain for them. We now have Cyber Monday, an opportunity for internet shoppers to rake in great bargains online. Store discounts and coupons is also appealing to us. The Business world is also about making profit, increased productivity results in increase revenue and profit.
This is all good, but there is an important aspect of our lives that we should strive for great gain that is often neglected or not talked about much – our spiritual life. We all have body, soul and spirit as Human beings, as we focus on godliness and contentment we will experience great gain. Wow, this is good news! It certainly pays to live a life that pleases and glorifies God. True satisfaction and contentment only comes from having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Nothing can replace fellowship with God in our lives. “Our souls are restless until we find our rest in God.” Inner peace comes as we align ourselves with God’s plan and purpose. Peace is not the absence of trouble but the presence of Almighty God in our lives. We read in Luke 12:15 And He said to them, “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for ones life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.” Again Scripture tells us “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” ( Matthew 16:26) Be wise, godliness with contentment is great gain! God loves you and He longs to have fellowship with you. As we go about our daily endeavors, let us also strive to live godly lives and invest in the things that yield eternal dividends because that is what will last forever. Don’t just spend time, invest it; make your time on earth count for Christ and eternity. C.T. Studd once wrote “Only one life ’twill soon be past, only what is done for Christ will last.”
Here are some reasons why godliness with contentment is great gain.
I encourage you to cultivate godly habits, be content and thankful for what you have. Stay positive and be hopeful! “Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal” ( Matthew 6:20). My greatest satisfaction and joy is in knowing God and having a dynamic relationship with Him. A preacher once said “Winning big has earthly rewards, but we must dedicate our lives to achieving a more important victory- the eternal approval of our Heavenly Father. That is the biggest win of all.” Yes you can win big, because godliness and contentment is great gain. Amen!