goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

Happiness or Contentment

By Linda Tancs

Happiness and contentment are frequently treated as the same thing, like simply a matter of word choice. But nothing could be further from the truth. Contentment is a condition of the soul; happiness is conditioned on circumstances. The apostle Paul is a great illustration of the difference. Do you think that his series of hardships (2 Corinthians 11:23-33) were a source of happiness? Indeed not. But he said that he learned to be content in all circumstances (Philippians 4:11). How did he do it? By focusing on Christ rather than his circumstances (Philippians 1:12). Circumstantial happiness will never bring true contentment, but contentment will bring a kind of joy that only the Spirit can produce.

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As part of FOOT FORWARD MINISTRIES (a teaching and speaking ministry), Go Forward in Faith represents faith-based meditations for personal and professional growth. Follow us on Twitter @moveonfaith and join the Facebook group @goforwardinfaith.

goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

Peanut Butter and Jelly

By Linda Tancs

There are some things in life that, arguably, are inextricably linked, like a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Like Frank Sinatra sang, you can’t have one without the other. Contentment and gratitude are like that. Just try to experience one without the other (Philippians 4:11). Contentment fosters gratitude; gratitude brings on contentment, or at least soothes discontent. Think of that the next time you see a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

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As part of FOOT FORWARD MINISTRIES (a teaching and speaking ministry), Go Forward in Faith represents faith-based meditations for personal and professional growth. Follow us on Twitter @moveonfaith and join the Facebook group @goforwardinfaith.