Contentment is the state of being content; while content means to be satisfied with what ones has, not wanting, more, happy. Following from above, does it mean that any desire to want more is deemed as an act of covetousness or lack of contentment ??
That is, when one desires a higher pay, better job, better accommodation, financial increase or when one aspires to be great; are these proofs of lack of contentment.
If I long for a promotion or a change of status; does this means I am greedy or covetous??
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See, while greed means excessive and selfish desire for wealth, powers, fame etc, to be covetous is having or showing a strong desire to possess (especially something that belongs to someone else)
Following from above, it very possible for one to aspire for greatness or an increase in financial status without being greedy or covetous
However, considering the definition of contentment, will it be wrong or out of place to even aspire for greatness or to desire a better status? In appraising this, we paul
a perusal into some scriptural injunctions
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Apostle Paul began to lend his in support of the Gospel of contentment. And to this he opined
1 Timothy 6:5b-6
supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. [6] But godliness with contentment is great gain.
He was simply saying that there be those who think that godliness is a tool or weapon of amassing wealth or achieving greatness
And to them, they chose to be godly because of the purported gain associated with it. However, he was quick to refute that assertion when he stated categorically:but godliness with contentment is great gain
The point being made by him is that godliness (to a believer) though, the bedrock of fruitfulness Job 36:11 KJV
If they obey and serve him , they shall spend their days in prosperity, and their years in pleasures.
However, it should be synergized or married with contentment, so that greediness or covetousness may not be the order of the day
Hmmm! godliness (married) with contentment is great gain if you......... Supposing that gain is godliness. l, however, submit that there is greater gain when holiness is married to contentment(paraphrased)
Knowing fully well that:1 Timothy 6:7-8 KJV
For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. [8] And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
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The contentment he advocated here was to curb every form of excesses, greed and covetousness. He was nor saying that as long as you eat and have clothes to put on, you should be okey with that, without wantingn anything more
Moreover, contentmenis a vitrue that the church needs to imbibe. It is sine qua non or imperative in our walk with God, as it checkmate our excesses, greediness and covetousness. To be content in whatever level as a believer is to be appreciative to God and be satisfied with it as that time; while trusting Him for a higher level
In Hebrews 13:5 KJV
Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
Conclusively, implore you to imbibe the very words of apostle paul
Philippians 4:11-13 KJV
Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. [12] I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. [13] I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
The point being made is that whichever level or state you are or find yourself, you have to be grateful and appreciative to God, while in anticipation for a higher level