Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. -Philippians 4:11-13

As with all of my writing, this subject stems from personal experience but I felt sure I was not alone in my idea that there is such a thing as Holy discontentment. Maybe Gary even wrote about it and I am forgetting. I did a search of all Gary’s posts to be sure but see nothing. I also did a little internet research on the subject. Here’s what I found out so far:

There is a book called “Holy Discontentment” by Bill Hybels.

The Greek word for content is autarkēs. Definitions include “sufficient for one’s self…independent of external circumstances…contentment with one’s lot…”

Now for my disclaimer. I am not theologian enough to critique or break down the nuances and historicity of the thoughts thus far stated. But here’s what I know:

Discontentment happens.

Today I am believing that God-filled contentment happens within the context of a Holy discontentment. Paul was content per his testimony in Philippians 4, but he was navigating some trouble.

It is what moves missionaries to take the Gospel of Jesus next door or overseas.

It thrills the well-supplied individual to share his affluence with the needy around him.

It sweetens soured relations.

It energizes writers to tell stories with morals, bring attention to problems and offer viable solutions.

It inspires the visual artist to reflect God’s glory on earth, the musician to compose beautiful and soul-filled music, businesses to treat their workers well, inventors to discover solutions that better humanity, philanthropists to build good hospitals and organizations, adventurers to magnify God’s creation, and so it goes…

Because of Jesus, I believe holy discontentment can be a doorway to true contentment.

Amazing!