Contentment

"Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content." [Philippians 4:11]

The Apostle Paul speaks of being content in what ever circumstance he finds himself. To be content means having the ability to be satisfied with things as they are. This is not an excuse for laziness, sloppiness or poor quality work but it is the ability to find satisfaction in any and all circumstances because the real source of our contentment is not in our outward circumstances but our inward relationship with God. Contentment is relational not circumstantial. 

Let me suggest to you 10 Keys to Contentment.

1. Learn to focus on that which is internal and not externals [Luke 11:37-54]. The key to real religion is  on our relationship with God.  This does not mean externals are unimportant but it means they are not an end in themselves. They should give evidence of one's relationship with God and not be a substitute for that relationship.
2. Learn the value of keeping a proper balance between that which is eternal and that, which is temporal. [Mark 8:36] That is because things cannot satisfy [Luke 12:15]. We must recognize their necessity for physical existence but we can not dependent upon them to be source of satisfaction. Our spiritual and emotional needs cannot be satisfied with temporal things [12:16; Jeremiah 2:13]. We are to seek first the kingdom of God and God will provide for our physical necessities.
3.  Learn that worry has no value [Philippians 4:6; Matthew 6:25 - 34]
4.  Learn the value of godliness [1 Timothy 6:6 “But godliness with contentment is great gain“].
5. Learn the value of faithfulness. God requires of us that we be faithful to Him and in serving Him.  [Faithfulness defined]
6. Learn the value of being thankful. Be thankful for what you have because thankful people are contented people.
7. Learn the value of prayer. The way to learn the value of prayer is by praying. When we pray we exercise our faith in God and it is this exercise of faith that brings greater faith. Prayer is the ability to trust God.
8. Learn to control your attitude regarding the circumstances of life. We cannot control your circumstances but you can control your attitude. and your attitude frames the way you respond to your circumstances.  “Attitude is your paintbrush, it colors every situation.”  [Ann Turnage] In the ways of God our circumstances are meant to be  beneficial not detrimental – purposeful not random. They are intended to be stepping-stones not stumbling-blocks.
9.   Learn the value of your thought life [Proverbs 23:7].
10. Learn that life is not about you but about glorifying God and ministering to others.

Now for the most important point, contentment just doesn't happen, it is learned. Learning to be content comes from trial and error. It takes time to learn to focus on what God is doing in and through us and not on our circumstances. They are just tools He uses to  so that our lives will bring Him glory.