The Source of Discontentment
As believers, we may sometimes find ourselves struggling with discontentment. But what is the source of such discontentment? In Part Four, we learned that the foundation of contentment lies in the character of God. By having knowledge of God’s identity, nature, and character, we can lead a contented life. Our belief in God’s sovereignty over all things is what can guide us towards contentment. However, as sinners in a fallen world, our view of God’s bigger story and eternal future may get skewed, leading to discontentment. When we’re discontent, we’re implying that the cross of Christ is insufficient. Hence, unbelief lies at the root of discontentment.
Have you ever questioned something God has done in your life? Do you tend to view trials differently once they have passed? When we believe ourselves to be wiser than God, we start doubting His plans for us. Even a slight deviation from proper theology can make us discontent due to our improper view of God and ourselves. Instead, we should rely on the Lord and trust that true contentment can only come from Him. A. W. Pink writes, “The permanence of God’s character guarantees the fulfillment of his promises.” When we’re discontent, we question God’s character, sovereignty, and goodness. Let us not forget that our hope as Christians lies in God’s character and who He claims to be.
We should live in the present with the understanding that this world is not our home. Our discontentment stems from unbelief. A heart that believes in God and is under the authority of His word will demonstrate its belief with contentment that flows outward. From the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks. Suppose we do not believe in God and hold fast to His promises. In that case, we will experience the effects of unbelief through discontentment.
God works to sanctify us and make us resemble Christ throughout our lives. However, sanctification in the present may provide us a different satisfaction than our future glorification. We should take comfort in that God is working all things together according to His plan for the ultimate good of those in Christ Jesus. Our purpose is significant, yet we tend to value what God is doing in the lives of others more. We are called to trust Christ and the purpose He has for us and value ourselves in union with Christ.
Discontentment disregards what Christ has done for us on the cross and instead focuses on selfish desires for what more Christ can do for us. A gospel-centered focus on the cross can alleviate worries and anxieties. Realizing that we have a disappointed heart leads us to repentance, gratitude, and humility. Reflection on all that Jesus has done for us is good news because we are sinners saved by grace. He is working all things for our good and His glory. We can trust Him and be content in this life.
1. What is the foundation of contentment?
2. What may cause our view of God’s bigger story to get skewed?
3. Why does unbelief lie at the root of discontentment?
4. How can a slight deviation from proper theology make us discontent?
5. What is the source of our discontentment?
6. What is the reason for our hope as Christians?
7. How can we demonstrate our belief in God?
8. How does discontentment disregard what Christ has done for us?
9. How can we alleviate worries and anxieties?
10. How can confessing the sin of discontentment help us better understand the Gospel?
Do you feel that you downplay the sin of discontentment? Confessing this sin can help us better understand the Gospel. We can trust God to help us grow in spiritual maturity (Matthew 6:33-34). For further study, read Genesis 3:1-6.
Debbie Swindell 