Thrive Thought: Godliness with Contentment

THRIVE THOUGHT
Godliness with Contentment

In a letter to his close companion and spiritual son, Paul warned Timothy about people “who think that godliness is a means to financial gain” (1 Timothy 6:5b).

We don’t know exactly what Paul had in mind when he wrote these words, but today we can easily see examples of those within the Church who have overlooked this warning.

When a pastor steals from his or her congregation.

When a church leader swindles fellow believers in a business deal.

When a church worker pockets money meant to be given away.

The world is full of missteps by Jesus-followers who have sought personal profit at the expense of others. And to live against this warning, Paul gives Timothy a piece of wisdom that can transform our lives today:

"But godliness with contentment is great gain” (1 Timothy 6:6).

When we pursue Jesus and we are content with everything in our lives, we are truly ready for whatever Jesus wants to call us to next.

However, when we focus on what we don’t have, we will waste what we do have.

Billions and billions of dollars are spent every year to convince you and me that we do not have enough and we do not have the right things. We are told, “If you buy the right phone, the right car, the right boat, the right vacation home, the right college for your child, the right _______ then you will be satisfied.”

But when will we ever be fully satisfied?

Paul is right: Godliness with contentment is great gain (1 Timothy 6:6).

Brian Beall is one of the pastors at Pathway. He and his wife, Sheri, are leading their children to wisely manage their income, so that they can thrive as adults.

Learn more about Pathway's Thrive Financial Ministry.