KLOVE was having the KLOVE challenge for 2011 where you choose a word to focus on for the year. So I prayed about it asking God for direction on a word. Then one day the word just came to me contentment. It is a BIG word , but it's the perfect word for me.
But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. Timothy 6:6-7
Getting to Contentment: So if contentedness is so great, how do you get there? That’s not always easy, but here are some things that have worked for me:
- Count your blessings. When you find yourself unhappy with something, or with what you don’t have, take a moment to count all the good things in your life. And I would bet there are many. It puts the focus on what you do have rather than what you don’t.
- Stop, and remind yourself. When you find yourself unhappy with someone, or trying to change them, stop yourself. Take a deep breath, and remind yourself that you should try to be happy with that person for who he/she is. Take a moment to think about the good things about that person, the reasons you love that person. Then accept their faults as part of their entire package.
- Stop, and consider why you want something. When you feel the urge to buy something, think about whether it’s a need or a want. If it’s a want, take a pause. Are you not content with what you already have? Why not?
- Take time to appreciate your life! I like to reflect on my life, and all the good things in it, on a regular basis. I do this when I walk, or when I drive to work, or when I’m in the mountains or when I'm surrounded by family. Another great method is a morning gratitude session — think of all the things and people you’re thankful for, and thank them silently.
