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This November, my Thanksgiving prayer for Our Redeemer is that we would learn to be content. Say the word with me….C O N T E N T.........content. Doesn't that feel great rolling off the tongue? What a gift contentment is! Paul says this:

.......for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. (Philippians 4:11b-12)

What is the secret of being content? It starts with realizing who we are in Christ. Knowing that we are beloved children of God gives us our identity. Loving God and our neighbors gives us a sense of purpose. Once we understand that it is God who gives us all things, including our very lives, we can begin to slow down the race to accumulate possessions.

You have more than likely heard it said that the one who dies with the most toys wins. My question is, wins what? That person is still dead, and their toys remain on this earth. Who gets them then? Jesus said in Matthew 16:26, "What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what would a man give in return for his soul?" When we step out of the rat race and trust God for His gracious provision, we will be well on our way to contentment.

I am not suggesting that we should be docile and accept whatever comes our way and not ever try to improve our lot in life. God has gifted us with talent to use. God wants us to make the most of ourselves. But when we mistakenly equate the abundance of possessions with success and happiness, we set ourselves up for restlessness and an unfulfilled life.

"Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you," Jesus promises. A life of contentment begins and ends with living right with God. This Thanksgiving holiday, count your blessings each and every day. Then, with grateful hearts, thank God for pouring those blessings out upon you. If you are angry with someone, pray for them that God would bless them with good things. If you do this for one month, I guarantee that you will be changed.

You will have more periods of contentment, and your heart will become more and more grateful.

Happy Thanksgiving!