Contentment

As a photographer, it can be pretty easy to become discontented with one's work. You look around at the awesome images others are putting out, and judge your own work. It's easy to think that one's own portfolio is actually quite terrible in comparison.

It's somewhat like keeping up with the Joneses.

And the challenge is also realizing that most of us don't live near epic mountain ranges, and dramatic skies don't happen that often in reality.

So the photographer keeps dreaming, hoping for a day they hit that perfect combination of awesome light and spectacular scenery.

Truth be told, however, there's probably already been a shot taken of something very similar, not to burst your (or my) bubble.

But discontentment isn't confined to photography.

I notice at times in my own life how often I long for something beyond where I'm at now. I look to what's ahead, to my hopes, and lose track of what's here and now.

So much so, in fact, that I often miss out on things because I'm not being present.

Discontentment is a challenge, and to be honest, it's a sin. Yet, God in His grace, gives us a remedy: Himself.

Paul speaks about being content in any and every circumstance in Philippians 4.

The Philippians recognized a need for Paul and provided for it. In his response to the gift, he points out that he has learned to be content in want and in plenty.

His secret? His strength comes from Jesus (Philippians 4:13).

I wish I were smart enough to understand that fully. But I suppose that it encompasses many things, not the least of which is that we have peace with God through Christ.

Which really does give a sense of contentment, doesn't it? I can know that no matter what is going on in my life, how much or how little I may possess, I possess the greatest thing of all: a relationship with the God of the universe.

Another part of being content is realizing God's sovereign design over our lives.

He's working all things for the good of His people (Romans 8:28), and so I can know that where I'm at, He's using it. This is never an excuse for our sins and failings, just a comfort knowing that God is greater than us.

Lastly, for today, I think it is a recognition of the responsibilities He has given to us in this very moment. I think that as we look ahead to greater things, we must recognize that God has us in this moment for a reason. To love the people He has placed in our lives, to pray for them, and to use our gifts and talents.

This is all very convicting to me, as I am a major offender. But that doesn't make it any less true, I suppose.

So may we find our contentment not in the future hopes and dreams in this life, but in the God who leads us, and the promises that He has made to us in Christ.