How to Have a Spirit of Contentment in a Materialistic World

Humble Beginnings

I grew up in a family where money was always tight, and we had to visit the church food pantry more than a few times. I remember my parents scraping together what they had to make food last for our four, hungry mouths. New clothes came from yard sales and there were very little extras, yet we were happy. Since that financially rough start, my parents have experienced middle-class “success”, mostly because their frugal-living principles have remained in tact.

When I grew wings and flew the coop, I did not want to be frugal any longer and couldn’t wait to experience financial freedom myself. Wasn’t I due the finer things in life, such as a closet full of new clothes, vacations, and dinners out with friends?

The credit card debt I accumulated in my so-called “finanical freedom”, had me enslaved to debtors at a young age, all for the sake of new things. I learned many lessons from those years of credit card frivolity that you can read in Lessons from a Former Credit Card Addict, yet it was not the feeling of true happiness I thought it would be.

I was searching for more. That search for satisfaction flowed into a powerful desire to find my husband, and then after a few years, have children.

There always seemed to be the next phase of life I was longing for, just knowing that true satisfaction would be found at the newest stage.

Can you relate?

If we’re honest, there’s a natural tendency to gravitate towards the next step of life, and live life always wanting more, never truly satisfied.

How do we have a spirit of contentment in a materialistic world? Is it really possible to be truly satisfied with what we have?

1. Fix your eyes on the One Who satisfies your soul.

Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.” John 6:35

Friends, the truth is, we will never be satisfied on earth by material goods, people, situations, or experiences. That grand prize you’re after, the one that will complete your life and satisfy your longings, does not exist.

There is only one who can fill your deepest longings and quench your thirsty soul, Jesus.

He alone will complete your life and leave you filled in a way nothing or no one can.

While it’s wonderful to have goals and ambition, don’t let success and materialism eclipse God and diminish His power in your life. Only he can satisfy the depths of your soul!

2. Stop comparing your lot in life to others .

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 1 John 2:15

It is easy for the green-eyed monster to rear its ugly head when you are constantly comparing yourself with others. There will always be someone who seems to have it better than you, and when you focus on what they have and how you’ve fallen short, you miss the blessings God has planned for you and has already bestowed upon you.

3. Limit your time on social media to guard your heart.

Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life. Proverbs 4:23

The year I took a break from all social media did wonders for my spirit! Gone were the images and status updates of friends who seemed to have it all together, and it allowed me to establish a healthy outlook on the blessings that I’ve been given.

4. Don’t shop for fun.

Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways. Psalm 119:37

Are you a gold-medal winner in the sport of shopping for fun? I was too, yet when I realized the financial and spiritual ruin I was in because of my debt, I quit shopping cold turkey. While I missed it at first, I knew that in order for me to be truly content with my life and my belongings, I had to stay out of stores.

Gone were the lengthy strolls through my favorite bargain stomping grounds, TJ Maxx and Target, yet the overwhelming feeling of discontent towards my possessions was also gone.

I was only able to be truly grateful for what I had once I stopped looking for more.

5. Thank God every day for His blessings

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

When you realize that the old clothes you have are more than what others in a third world country have in a lifetime, you’re thankful.

When you’re eating leftovers and you think how kids around the globe would love your cast-offs, you’re humbled.

When you put on your scuffed up shoes, and remember that there are those praying for shoes, you’re grateful.

Thanking God for His blessings changes your heart, your outlook and perspective on a life that is filled with blessings. When you open your eyes and truly look for God’s handiwork in your life, it’s easy to be content in a materialistic world, no matter what.

How do you practice contentment?
How does looking for God’s blessings in your life change your outlook on your life?

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Sarah Ann

Hello, new friends! I'm Sarah Ann, author at Faith Along the Way, and lover of deep conversations and authentic friendships. I am a perfectly imperfect wife and mom, but am saved by grace. With a child on the Autism Spectrum and one wild toddler, there's never a dull moment in my house! Bargain hunting, promoting health and Young Living Essential Oils are my favorites. I'd be honored if you visited my home on the web HERE, where I inspire hope, encourage faith, and celebrate families!