The Art of Contentedness

Oh, to be satisfied…

No yearning, or striving or feeling as though you need more or are lacking in any way. To live, to love, and to be content right where you are. That my friends, is priceless. What a goal. Satisfaction or being content does not negate the goal to grow or improve. Not in the slightest. In fact, it’s kind of the opposite. When we are grateful of where we’re at and satisfied in every moment, that’s when growth succeeds.

In the words of C.S. Lewis, there are two types of discontentment: one is destructive and leads to negative outcomes, while the other is a “right kind” of discontentment that fuels a desire for growth and a better future.

And while I agree that there is a “right kind” of discontentment that helps us to not lie stagnant, I want to narrow in on the destructive kind. And how we can change that into a happy outlook and thereby existence. It all starts with Jesus.

The Artist…

Like all pieces of art, they must begin with an artist. Mona Lisa’s famous portrait would never have been without a Leonardo. And the biblical statue of David would be non-existent if it weren’t for Michelangelo. And so, just like these two physical pieces of work have creators, so does the intangible ART of contentedness. The Author Who brings contentment. I can write all the right words and bring all of my expression and encouragement in hopes of benefiting the reader, but quite honestly, that’s not enough. And though many may have answers to what true contentment is, I would be remiss not to point to the Creator Who helps each of us to find it. Many have it all – fame, power, money, good looks and everything the world might say is desirable. But such a large amount of those who “have it all” are broken, void and empty. Why? Because theres a key, and that is we must know the Artist. And not just know Him but be yielded to Him and totally dependent on Him. And because it is He Who created you and I, it is He and only He Who can bring true and deep satisfaction.

Acts 17:28 says “In Him, we live and move and have our being”.

Without Him, nothing is attainable. Complete reliance on Him brings a life lived contentedly.

Letting Go…

It is easier said than done, isn’t it? But it is also crucial that we do so if we desire to live a satisfying life. It’s a discontented heart that has difficulty letting go. It can be past hurts or mistakes, others actions, false responsibilities, negative emotions or unrealized expectations that try and dog us. And if we allow it, it holds on with teeth!

So the question is what is holding us back from fully relinquishing and how can we change that? It requires deep surrendering. When things are out of our control, we must pray and let go. When situations are less than desirable, we must pray and become part of the change. When others are unhealthy, controlling or hurtful, we must pray and forgive. We cannot change others, only ourselves. So move along and free yourself from people and situations that are not for your best. Love them but it’s ok to not engage any longer. It really is.

We can never become fully changed and in turn satisfied when we hold on to what’s harming us. The releasing is such a big part of contentedness.

Grasp of Gratitude…

Gratitude. We must grab onto it with everything in us. And though life will never be perfect, our attitude can be. It is so important to recognize our blessings. When we are grateful, it has a profound impact on one’s wellbeing.

I feel I am a contented person. And it’s all because of God. I credit Him with everything. Without Him and all He is and does, life would be unrecognizable to what it is. But if I were to go further and focus on the physical and materialistic scope, I’ve always been sort of a minimalist to some degree. I have never wanted a mansion, I’m more of a small cottage girl. I don’t need closets full of clothes and all of “the things” to be happy. Don’t get me wrong, I like nice quality things and to look nice (who doesn’t?) but I guess what I’m expressing is I’m satisfied. I’m not constantly yearning for more. In the physical sense that is. I’m just grateful.

Matthew 6:21 says “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also“.

We can have gratitude even in the imperfect, less than ideal circumstances. Giving thanks with a grateful heart is key. And then giving to others. Be good to others. Bless and love on them as much as possible.

And remember, when we know and are in tune with the Artist, we can let go and free up space in our thoughts and hearts to be at peace and to focus on the good. There’s always good.

God bless!

Tanya

(*Disclaimer – No AI was used in the writing of this blog)