Godliness with Contentment is Great Gain

Dear friends,

“Now there is great gain in godliness with contentment, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world” (1 Timothy 6:6-7).

These verses teach us how to relate to wealth in this world. However, there is a broader and more general meaning as well. Not only should we seek “godliness and contentment” outside of money, but also other things such as pleasure, rest, fame, fitness, and worldly success. “Godliness” begins when we place our trust in Christ and have our sins washed away. It continues as we strive to love and honor Him by obeying His commands. “Contentment” comes from valuing and appreciating our relationship with the Lord more than anything else in this life.

Many people chase after the toys of this world and find that peace and happiness always elude them. This is because everything in the world will eventually spoil, perish, and fade away. Only the soul lasts for ever and only a Christ possessed soul will be prepared for heaven. This is why the greatest gain comes when we find salvation and satisfaction in Him.

“Worldlings prize their gems of beauty,
Cling to gilded toys of dust,
Boast of wealth and fame and pleasure;
Only Jesus will I trust.

Since my eyes were fixed on Jesus,
I’ve lost sight of all beside;
So enchained my spirit’s vision,
Looking at the Crucified.”

Your friend,

Stephen

Rev. Stephen St. John
Pastor/Elder