Learning To Be Content

When I was a little girl, I would often dream of what my life might be like. I would be found day dreaming, wishing upon a star, hopeful that some of my dreams would come true. I didn’t not know the Lord at the time, and was not aware that someone else was in control.

I had a list of some of the most important things I wanted out of life. I kept it in a secret diary. I prayed to God they would come true, before I even new God was real.

  • I wanted a tall, dark haired husband who made lots of money so that I wouldn’t have to work.
  • I wanted a ranch-style home, with a white picket fence and a huge lawn with not-too-close neighbors.
  • I wanted 3 children, who would be active in dance, sports and very smart.

After I became a Christian, I learned to place my life in God’s hands, trusting His plan for my life.

My husband is tall, but with dirty blonde hair. He works hard in construction and makes just enough money to supplement my income as a church administrator. We don’t have a lot extra, but we are thankful to always have what we need.

We were able to buy a home many years ago. It wasn’t huge and there was no picket fence. But it accommodated our growing family. However, we recently had to give up our dream home as unemployment turned our finances upside down. We are thankful that my husband is now working and that God has provided a large rental home with more than enough room for our family.

I have four children, two girls and two boys. A nice round number. And do you want to hear something shocking?  My children have never participated in extra curricular activities, outside of what they are involved in at church. We could never afford it. And secondly, as full-time working parents, we were unwilling to allow another parent to watch our children excel in things that we could not actively participate in. Selfish?  Perhaps. Although my children do not participate in theater or sports, they are all involved in or are leading worship at our local House of Prayer. This makes us so proud. We couldn’t ask for anything more.

I have to be honest and admit that sometimes I find myself yearning for more. And although I believe it’s perfectly okay to have wants and desires, I never want to become dissatisfied with the life God has given to me. He has been so faithful!

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. (Philippians 4:12)

It’s taken some time, but I am learning to be content in all things. I have not worldly wealth nor possessions. But I have a husband who showers unconditional love one me, children who are healthy and serving the Lord with their whole heart, and friends who bless and encourage me in more ways than they could possible know.

Yes, my life is full. I am content. And He is so good!

9 Responses to Learning To Be Content
  1. Contentment
    April 12, 2012 | 1:16 am

    […] 5 Minutes for Faith,Uncategorized I am over at 5 Minutes for Faith today, talking about being content.  Here is a little […]

  2. Beth
    April 12, 2012 | 5:07 am

    I love this post Barbie! I remember when you had to leave your home and the uncertainty of it all.

    I had dreams as a child too. I wanted “my prince” to carry me away. I wanted to sing, to write, and to be a Mom.

    I am blessed beyond measure and am content as well.

    Love and hugs,
    Beth

  3. Tonya Barnes
    April 12, 2012 | 8:18 am

    Beautiful word Barbie! Thank you for sharing! Be Blessed!

    • Barbie
      April 12, 2012 | 8:31 pm

      Thank you Tonya! I appreciate you stopping by to read.

  4. Nikki
    April 12, 2012 | 9:05 am

    Oh how I loved this. and I’m thankful for you blessing me today. Yes. I, too, have more than enough. For He is good. That’s really all I need…

    Hugs to you!
    All for Him,
    Nikki

    • Barbie
      April 12, 2012 | 8:31 pm

      Yes and Amen!

  5. Sherrey Meyer
    April 12, 2012 | 7:06 pm

    Barbie, an absolutely perfect life is what I hear you saying! Contentment grows in the heart . . . and without the heart growth there is no contentment. You’ve got it, girl!

  6. Barbie
    April 12, 2012 | 8:32 pm

    May the Lord enlarge my heart so I can be even more content! You bless me with your comments.

  7. Kelly Stilwell
    April 15, 2012 | 2:51 pm

    Love your blog! Homeschooling mom of 2 girls, one on the worship team at church, one on the tech team. Husband on the worship team, too! Me? I coordinate volunteers and edit for one of our pastors. I’m a freelance writer, so I’ll check out your guidelines, too. Nice to “meet” you!