Today’s devotion is on the topic of contentment. Contentment is something we all want but are rarely willing to pay the cost to get it. Contentment is much more than being satisfied with the way we look, achieving our goals, or affording that new car. Why—because eventually the new car smell fades away. I’ve discovered that real contentment follows the life abandon to God and His will. I know, I know the world offers a much better deal than to surrender ones rights—or does it?
Pause Here and watch the video clip below of me speaking on comparison. The first part I describe in a humorous way how dissatisfied we are with things in general. Then the clip moves to a more serious tone as I compare the difference between what the world offers and what God offers.
Life marked by peace and contentment. It’s what we’re all searching for.
“For years, I held on to my mixed bag of emotions blaming God and others for my pain. I was alone, afraid, and angry, not by my choice. I was this way because others gave up on me. Porter, my husband, didn’t fight hard enough to stay alive. And God—well, if He really cared then why didn’t He free me from the feelings that haunted me day and night?
Over time my eyes were opened to the real problem. Instead of looking at myself, my eyes were always on someone else. When I finally did take a good long look at myself, I realized that I was a spoiled-rotten child of God who had stomped my foot, crossed my arms, and turned my back on God, but it wasn’t going to bring Porter back. Nor was I allowing God to express His love toward me and heal my wounds. In that honest moment with myself, I let go of my anger and fear and re-opened my heart to God.
Letting go is hard. It demands that we let go of something we value—not like a piece of jewelry- but our fears, our pride, or perhaps a sense of justice or revenge. It’s scary to let go of such things. But I wanted change—real change. I didn’t want to be afraid or hurt anymore. I wanted to be at peace. So, I knelt down beside my bed and prayed. This time my prayer wasn’t about what others had or hadn’t done in life, it was about what I had done. I had sinned by doubting God’s love. To see myself there is to see myself outside of the scope of God’s grace. Doubting God’s provision had separated me from the only one who could help me. Broken before God, I asked for His forgiveness. I surrendered anew to His plan for my life. What was God’s response? It was pure grace. I got up from my knees a new person. I was no longer afraid or angry—just filled with life and love.” (Excerpt from Micca’s book, An Untroubled Heart)
I realize that’s a big step for some today, but you can start by asking God to open your eyes. Then, look inward and ask yourself, “Why am I not content? Do I want more than God has provided?” If so, what do you need to do about it to find peace and contentment? I’m praying that you find peace today!
http://www.youtube.com/get_player
Lynn says
Thank you, this message is an answer to prayer! I've been trying to teach this to my son & can't wait to share this with him. God is healing my heart in an amazing way since my husband died but my sons wounds are slower to mend. Lots of food for thought here.
sagreen125 says
thank you so much. this is what I needed to hear. I tend I feel I deserve these things in life, because of how others treated me. To see God gave me life, and promises to heal the hurt, but most important he died for that hurt. Before it ever happened. He knows the pain.
I feel like this was another confirmation for me of what God is speaking.
Melissa Milbourn says
Micca,
Your devotion spoke volumes to me today. Just wanted you to know.
Debra says
Thank You Micca, Your devotion was wonderful. Please keep our hearts content Lord.
kelly says
Thank you for your "God" words to me this morning. So true! Your words were a sweet balm to my heart.
Thank you!
God's blessings be upon you!
Kelly
Tamika: says
Beautiful post! I'm elated to have stumbled across your blog.
I'm learning that a spirit of gratitude, is the best Thank you. God has given more than I could ever deserve!
May God continue to bless you and use for His glory!