It Always Begins With the HeartExemplo

A Content Heart

My father was an avid reader, but his all-time favourite story was, ‘How much land does a man need,’ by Leo Tolstoy, a well-known Russian author. The story is about Pahom, a peasant farmer in rural Russia. He is told of a deal where whatever expanse of land he can cover by walking in one day would be given to him free. The one condition for the deal was that he had to come back to the point where he began, before sunset. So Pahom begins walking at the crack of dawn. He walks as far as he can, excited that all that land would be his. He doesn’t even stop to take a break, lest he should lose precious time. Late in the afternoon, he realises he has gone too far and turns around to head back to the starting point. He runs as fast as he can. Just as the sun is setting, he sees his starting point. But by then, his body is too weak. He collapses to the ground bleeding from his mouth and passes away. His servant then buries him in a six-foot-long grave.

We are part of a corporate world that is so competitive and teaches us to always clamour for more. But 1 Tim 6:6 brings me to a screeching halt. We are called to be different. Am I so fixated on my next hike, my next promotion, a bigger role and an even bigger salary package that I don’t relish and enjoy what I have now? I am not saying ambition and aspiration is wrong. But the question is, am I grateful and content with what God has given me now?

I find writing a gratitude journal helps to constantly remind me of what I have today; to enjoy and be content with His blessings in my life. Contentment is wanting what you are already blessed with.

What are those blessings in your life that may have missed your attention? Take a few moments to thank God for what He has given you in your life, career and your family.

Father God, give me a grateful and content heart, to be thankful for the many blessings in my life. Amen