11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.
The economy of the United States is built on discontentment. If we were content we would all be driving very old cars and ironing our clothes. But the root of capitalism is discontentment. There is an endless stream on “new and improved” that gets paraded before our eyes and ears. The enticement to be the first one to own the newest cell phone with the best gizmo, shinny bling-bling is too much for many people. Their lives lack real substance so they are driven to consume for consumption sake. There is no real need for the newest cell phone; the old one made and received calls. This inner desire for more and newer is discontentment. Every advertisement is designed to spark this in as many viewers as possible. The more discontentment, the more sales. And from God’s perspective discontentment is just as bad for a Jesus-follower as any other sin. The Apostle Paul had been through every kind of struggle and yet he learned to be content. Learning to be content is a process. Some of it involves controlling where our thoughts drift. Some of that learning involves saying no to the moment. We don’t have to purchase in the moment. We can wait. And in the waiting, the postponing of the impulse we learn contentment. I have to not look at computer magazines. When I do, I have to fight the urge to purchase a newer, faster machine. I can rationalize the need for speed. I do, after all, process lots of video for use in ministry! And right now it takes a long time because I have an old computer. But in the middle of that battle I have to introduce a greater eternal concern. I think about the individuals around the world who are being helped by my giving. The girls who are being rescued from prostitution, the education, meals and clothing given in Jesus’ name, the missionary kids who are being educated, the orphans being raised with the love and care of Jesus-followers, and the churches being started. When I choose to think about these needs, my new computer fades into the background. I can make it with what I have. I choose to be content. How about you? What eternity filled thoughts and goals do you throw up to block the discontentment in your mind? If you don’t have any, find some. Become content.
The Arnold Journey 