Contentment

'Con-tent-ment: the state of being pleased, satisfied, not needing more. (Merriam -Webster online Dictionary)

Hmm. over the years I wonder that my definition sounds more like - elusive, hard to grasp, slips out of hand quickly! (Linda's experience dictionary)

However, my heart's cry, especially lately, has been a fullness of contentment.

Living in the realm of disability is hard. My daughter has had physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and a host of other therapies to improve where she is at over the years. I am not satisfied to have her remain where she is at - we are always working and striving for more. And yet, contentment means to be satisfied and not need more.

Can we be content and still strive for more?

Ever since I read this many years ago, I have been absolutely fascinated with this Scripture:
Phil 4:11-13
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. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
NIV

I remember wanting to confront Paul and say "Tell me the secret you speak of! Don't keep it to yourself!"

Paul couldn't answer me, but God certainly did. And lately He has been showing me much about the state of contentment, much of which I have shared already in previous posts. 

Looking up the antonyms of contentment is downright scary. I definitely don't want to live there! Words like: misery, sadness, joylessness, sorrow, dejection, depression, despondency, gloom, aggravation, annoyance, exasperation, irritation, agitation, distress....

Paul was able to get beyond the "what" of his life and live in the "who" he was meant to be. 
And in this - contentment by getting beyond the "what" of life - in this, we can do all things through Christ who gives us strength.

So yes, I can work for more and yet not need it to be content - with God's help.