Q 132: How do the redeemed of the Lord learn to be content in all things?

A 132: The redeemed of the Lord learn to be content by receiving everything from God with thanksgiving, rejoicing even in their trials, and seeking above all else to find their sufficiency in the Lord Jesus. (Phil. 4.6, 7; 1 Thess. 5.18; Jms. 1.2-4; Ps. 27.4; Phil. 4.19)

It is the hallmark of Kingdom citizens to love one another as Christ has loved us, to love their neighbors as themselves, and to love God with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. Thus the love we gain by growing in the Lord is focused outward, first of all, rather than inward, where the temptation to covet invites us to put ourselves and our interests above others and the Lord. Only as we grow in the Lord will we have the strength to resist covetousness, because we will truly see in Him our all in all, and will be able to know gratitude, joy, contentment, and peace that created things cannot supply.

If you are not receiving Crosfigell, our thrice-weekly devotional, sign up at our website today. T. M.’s latest book, Satan Bound: A Theology of Evil, is now available in our bookstore.