Fighting Discontentment by Resting in Christ

By Dave Jenkins · Contending for the Word Q&AIt’s good to ask the Lord for better health, a new job, or reconciliation with someone you love. A good desire becomes a source of discontentment when we begin to believe that we must have what we want before we can be satisfied.In this episode of Contending for the Word Q&A, Dave Jenkins opens Philippians 4:11–13 to show how Christ teaches his people contentment in both plenty and need. John 21:22 and Hebrews 13:5 help us see how that contentment shapes the way we respond to comparison and unmet desires.

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Learning Contentment in Christ

Paul knew what it was to go hungry and what it was to have plenty. In Philippians 4:11–13, he says that he learned contentment in both. When Paul says that he can do all things through Christ who strengthens him, he’s speaking about Christ’s strength to remain faithful through those changing circumstances.

Practicing Gratitude and Turning from Comparison

Comparison can make it hard to give thanks for the gifts God has already given you. In John 21:22, Jesus calls Peter to follow him. When someone else receives an opportunity you’ve been praying for, thank God for his kindness to them. Ask him to help you use what he’s entrusted to you today.Begin with what you have received in Christ. If you belong to him, you have forgiveness, peace with God, adoption into his family, and the hope of eternal life. Remembering these gifts helps you give thanks while you’re still waiting for an answer to prayer.

Fighting Discontentment While You Seek Change

Hebrews 13:5 calls us to be content with what we have because God has promised to never leave or forsake his people. You can ask the Lord to change a hard circumstance, take the next wise step, and trust his care while you wait.Find more episodes on the Contending for the Word Q&A page or watch the YouTube playlist.