"Contentment"

“Contentment”

 

Two of the most popular dramas in TV history are “The Waltons” (originally aired in 1972-1981) and “Dallas” (1978-1991). Both were hits with viewers and have continued in syndication but there the similarities end. “The Waltons” episodes were self-contained with occasional two-parters and presented the wholesome side of family life and godly values during the years of the Great Depression while “Dallas” was essentially a prime time soap opera of a modern era wealthy oil industry family marked by greed, lust and power grabbing. The contrast couldn’t be greater.

Years ago I remember hearing that a survey found that the TV family viewers would have most liked to be a part of was the Waltons. (I’ve been unable to document its source.) So it appears that mutual love and respect trumps fame and fortune. With the Waltons less translated into more and with the Ewings (the “Dallas” family) more became less when it came to what really mattered.

These two TV families illustrate the biblical truth of Proverbs 15:16: “Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil.” The Waltons displayed contentment and gratitude with what God provided while the Ewings were seemingly never satisfied and always sought more. Present-day real life examples abound with tragic stories of the empty lives of many of the rich and famous.

God knows that we as humans struggle with contentment which explains these biblical truths (emphasis added throughout):

*”…Godliness with contentment is great gain,” (1 Timothy 6:6).

*”You shall not covet….” (Exodus 20:17).

*”…Be content with your pay.” (Luke 3:14).

*”…If we have enough food and clothing, let us be content.” (1 Timothy 6:8, NLT).

*”…Be content with what you have….” (Hebrews 13:5).

*”…I have learned to be content, whatever the circumstances.” (Philippians 4:11).

David observed, “I have been young and now I am old, Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken….” (Psalm 37:25, NASB) to which we add God’s promise: “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5, emphasis added). So true contentment comes from God’s provision and presence. Have I reached this point in my life with Him?

 

Grace and Blessings!

                                                                 Jim McMillan