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1 Timothy 6:6-8 (KJV)

But godliness with contentment is great gain.  For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.  And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.

Ignore the Joneses

Let’s be content with what we have or the season of life we find ourselves. This Thanksgiving and beyond, don’t let comparison or covetousness set in as you interact with family members or other individuals who have more than you possess. Our sense of worth or value is not based on what we possess but being God’s precious possessions (1 Peter 2:9). When we do not keep up with the Joneses, we save ourselves from the burden of debt. Debt can make it difficult to spend quality time with our loved ones. When one goes into debt while trying to keep up with others, one may find it difficult to prioritize family time. 1 Timothy 6:6-8 was written to help set our hearts right.

Godliness with contentment means contentment rooted in godliness. It’s like saying a plant with leaves or fruits. Without the plant, leaves or fruits cannot exist. In like manner, we cannot experience true contentment without godliness. 

Godliness is a way of life centered on God, and godly contentment is a spiritual and emotional state of satisfaction in God. It does not mean one does not have hope for great things in the future. It means one has come to a place of emotional and spiritual maturity where one is thankful IN ALL things (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

When you feel comparison or covetousness welling up: remember your identity in God and remember that God wants you to be thankful in all things. In every season, there is always something to thank God for. Also, think about the character God is helping you develop this season.