The Legacy JourneySample

The Law of Great Gain

I’ve been involved in financial coaching for more than 20 years. I also get to talk with folks across America on the radio for three hours a day almost every day. I’ve had one-on-one conversations at events and connected with countless others through books. And I’ve learned a lot along the way.

For example, I think I’ve discovered the most powerful financial principle around. If you get this one right, it helps you get out of debt and teaches you how to live on less than you make. It challenges you to save and invest so you can build a legacy that changes your family tree. It transforms your perspective on generosity and frees you to make an impact for God’s kingdom.

And if you get it wrong, it will negatively effect all of those areas.

What is this life-changing financial principle? Contentment.

In 1 Timothy 6:6–8, Paul told his young friend Timothy that contentment was the key to great gain. Why? Because contentment helps you keep wealth in proper perspective. It reminds you that you didn’t bring anything into the world and won’t take anything with you when you go. So as long as you have your basic needs met, you can be content.

Of course, talking about contentment in our materialistic culture is like speaking a foreign language. But contentment balances our passion for achieving goals and our lust for stuff. It says, “I’m going to work at becoming better, but I’m also going to be content while I’m doing it.” So while you’re operating in achievement mode, practice genuine contentment. Keep what matters most in perspective and be grateful to God for all you have and all you are.

“Godliness with contentment is great gain.” It’s not a prosperity message. It’s a responsibility message.

It’s a principle we need to embrace as we continue on The Legacy Journey. To learn more about contentment and adopting a biblical framework for your money, visit daveramsey.com/legacy.