4 Simple Ways to Find Contentment in the Now

An article in the InTouch Magazine by John Blase recently got me thinking. Blase said the abundant life mentioned in John 10 makes many of us think of a “life where everybody’s in good health, all of the bills are paid, the kids are doing great in school, and there’s enough money in the bank for that little getaway to Tuscany we’ve been dreaming of.” But that’s not the abundant life Jesus meant. He provides the abundance every day in the mundane, difficult, and good.

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly. John 10:10 NASB

I hadn’t realized it, but Blase described my mindset to a T. If you had asked me where I’d be in five years, I would have probably said something like “debt-free, comfortable savings built up, living in a house, step-kids loving God, a child of my own…”

Is there anything wrong with wanting those things? I don’t think so. Each one is either biblical or understandable. My problem is when I focus on those wants at the expense of the now—when I’m thinking about new floors or a new house every time I clean the old carpet in my mobile home, or when I get upset because everyone around me is pregnant or has a child and I’m not sure I’ll ever have one of my own. The problem is when I’m ungrateful for the blessings I have now.

How do I find contentment in the now? How do I give thanks in all?

Finding Contentment in the Now | HISsparrowBlog | Christian living, contentment, abundant life, thankfulness

How to Find Contentment in the Now

#1 – I must actually give thanks.

I’m sure it seems pretty simple, but the first step in being more thankful has to be giving thanks—especially for the things that don’t meet my expectations. I need to give thanks for the very things I’m longing to change because God has a reason for providing them.

And providing is the operative word. How I feel at this point doesn’t change that they are blessings given to me by a loving Father.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 4:6 NASB

#2 – I must change the way I view things.

My husband made the comment recently that if you view the glass half-empty, you should just put the contents in a new glass.

What do you have when you have a half-empty 16-ounce glass and you put the contents into an 8-ounce glass? A full glass.

This is inspiring. My living conditions aren’t that bad when, instead of comparing them to everyone around me and their fancy houses and cars (the 16-ounce glass), I remember that half the world doesn’t even have what I do (the 8-ounce glass). Wow!

I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. Philippians 4:11 NASB

#3 – I must remember God has a plan, and it’s better than my own.

I know I have to be careful with this kind of thinking. It’s close to what I’ve been guilty of and the reason I’m writing this whole post.

However, I’ve noticed whenever something is really dear to me, when it causes emotions inside me so strong I’m tempted to take things into my own hands, that’s when patience is so important because God has a plan I can’t see. He has a plan better than what I could dream.

And this leads me to the next point.

#4 – God never says “no” to hurt us.

God intends the best for us. He never gives us anything for harm, and He never gives us less to harm. He knows best.

For I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, plans for your welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11 NASB | HISsparrowBlog

Are you content in your life right now? What blessings are you overlooking in your desire for more? I would love to hear from you in the comments!

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I love to help people see their value in Christ because once we understand that our potential to lead healthy lives that impact others for Christ is limitless.

This Post Has 23 Comments

  1. Helene Choo July 28, 2017 Reply

    I’m not actually religious, but I agree with the mindset of being thankful for life regardless. It’s good to have a positive attitude and I believe it helps people get through tough times. Thanks for sharing!

  2. Gena Geier July 28, 2017 Reply

    Thank you for this post. God has already brought me round to this realization. It has made a big difference in my mind set. Thank you for your insight!

  3. Alison Steck July 28, 2017 Reply

    This is lovely and I agree that we all need to take time and be grateful for what we have now, instead of solely focusing on the future!

  5. Helping Hearts Counseling July 30, 2017 Reply

    I love this, Ashley! The reframe about putting things in a new glass is so great (thank you, Randall), but also I love how you’ve reminded us that God never says no to harm us. He knows what He has planned for us.

  6. wendie July 30, 2017 Reply

    I try to follow the secret but need reminded to stay thankful x

    1. HISsparrowBlog July 31, 2017 Reply

      I need those reminders, too. More often than I’d like. Thanks for dropping in.

  8. kristal August 1, 2017 Reply

    I try to stay thankful everyday. Nothing is promise so I am happy with what I have. It is much better way to live.

  13. Cindy March 16, 2021 Reply

    I really loved this post. Thank you

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