Contentedness Philippians 4:11-13 I. Introduction. A. Every thinking person desires to be contented with oneself and one's life. B. What does contented mean? Can it be obtained? What does it feel like? C. Define the words: 1. Content: Dictionary-having the desires limited to that which one does; satisfied. Synonyms: Calmness; quietened; peace of mind; tranquillity. 2. Contentment: satisfaction; comfort; at ease. 3. Contented: Content; satisfied. 4. Greek: To be possessed of sufficient strength, to be strong, to be enough for a thing...to be satisfied///contentment: satisfaction with what one has. II. Body. A. We live in a world of discontentment. 1. Rush to find something that satisfies. 2. Changeable on every corner--at every challenge. 3. Many live a life of uneasiness, dread, and confusion. 4. Paul's encouragement: Philippians 4:11-13. a. Consider his afflictions and disappointments: yet, he was content. b. He found that he could adjust to his circumstances. c. Paul learned to be satisfied. d. He was not without problems and adversities. (1 Sometime when you feel sorry for yourself: remember Paul. (2 Paul understood the trials of this life: he would not let such destroy his faith. e. Paul trusted in the Lord for His help all the time. B. Unfortunately, there are those who are not contented. 1. Some live in a state of contention or anxiety or unhappiness. 2. Unhappy with self; unhappy with others; unhappy with the brethren; unhappy with occupation; just generally miserable(affect has on others). 3. Unfortunately, individuals seek satisfaction in ways that do not please Jehovah. a. The brothers of Joseph were content to sell him into slavery: Genesis 37:27.(KJ: "content to sell Joseph"). b. Pilate was content to listen to the multitude: Mark 15:15. c. Some were content to create problems in the early church: III John 10. (1 Some are not satisfied unless creating a "fuss." (2 One thing to contend for the truth...another to contend for one's own opinions. d. Some believe they are(or would be) content with riches. (1 Remember this man? Luke 12:19. (2 How many believe that if they only had more wealth they would be satisfied? C. Contentment comes to a Christian through the satisfaction of obeying the Lord and remaining faithful to His word. 1. An admonition: Matthew 6:34. 2. It takes time and effort and the proper attitude to be contented. 3. A lesson from Israel: Leviticus 10:20. a. KJ "He was content." b. Sin had been committed; correction was performed. 4. While on earth, the Lord taught: a. Learn to live with what you have: Luke 3:14. (1 Does not stifle improvement. (2 Satisfy oneself; satisfy the employer; the Lord will bless. b. Adapt to your circumstances; work on your attitude; seek improvement; live a righteous life; one learns to be happy (satisfied). c. If unhappy with self: CHANGE! 5. The Hebrew writer states: Hebrews 13:5. a. Note: Do not love money. b. Remember: the Lord takes care of Christians. 6. Paul described the proper attitude: II Corinthians 9:9-10. III. Conclusion. A. The attitude of Paul: I Timothy 6:6-10. B. The truly contented person is a faithful Christian. C. Are you unhappy with yourself? D. Commitment brings contentment.-jy