Contentment - Message Notes

Luke 12:15: "And Jesus said to them, 'Take Care! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; for one's life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.'"

Philippians 4: 11-13: "I've learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances. I'm just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little. I've found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am."

Opening Thoughts:

• We suffer from Restless Heart Syndrome

• "It is right to be contented with what we have, but never with what we are."

• When we simplify, we are content; and when we are content, we simplify.

Keys to Contentment:

• Remember that it could be worse

• Ask yourself, "How long will this make me happy?"

• Develop a grateful heart

• "Where do I find true satisfaction?"

• "You have made us for yourself, O God, and our hearts are restless until they find their rest in you."

• Set a goal of reducing your consumption, and choose to live below your means

• Ask yourself "Do I really need this?" and "Why do I want this?"

• Use something up before buying something new

• Plan low-cost entertainment that enriches

• Ask yourself "Are there any major changes that would allow me to simplify my life?"

Contentment is found in relationships, not in material things!