Godly Contentment

Intro

“Hoarder Denise’s House tour hoarding buried alive”

We should not let our lives be controlled by things of this world. Be characterized by contentment

Ephesus means “desireable”

What things have you collected?

Security from things we’ve owned

When we devote ourselves to knowing and loving Jesus, and serving others, we will find contentment.

Part 1

1 Timothy 6:6–8 CSB

But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out. If we have food and clothing, we will be content with these.

False Teachers: Godliness would lead to gain

not godliness, greed

2/3 of Americans believe God wants to help them prosper financially. True or False?

Grace comes from God when we don’t deserve//God blesses us after when we serve him.

“I did get injured, but i will make a full recovery quickly because God loves me”

“God will give me a job because i am faithful to him”

“God will let me win this race or beat the other team because i show Christ though my lifestyle”

God may do these things yes. But earthly things are not the reward of godliness.

Godliness and greed cannot be in the same heart.

Paul tells us that godliness with WHAT is great gain/reward?

We’ve taken nothing in and we can take nothing out of this world

1: why does contentment sometimes seem so elusive?

2: when has a desire for a specific possession led you to feel discontent?

Part 2

1 Timothy 6:9–11 CSB

But those who want to be rich fall into temptation, a trap, and many foolish and harmful desires, which plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, and by craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. But you, man of God, flee from these things, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness.

Taco Bell Craving

Cravings lead us to do extreme things

If we grace riches, it leads to destruction

If we crave the world we will never be satisfied

As a remedy to craving things of this world, what does paul tell timothy in the last verse?

Not only flee but also persue what?

Righteousness: right attitudes and actions in relation to God and others

Godliness: Living to relfect God’s character

Faith: Living in dependence upon God and being satisfied with what he provides

Love: The deep seated desire for the good of others, even at the point of sacrificing

Endurance: remaining faithful, even though difficulties

Gentleness: dealing kindly and patiently with others at all times

3: What traps can an unhealthy persuit of wealth create?

4: How can we recognize when money is becoming an idol?

5: How does pursuing healthy traits free us from the love of money?

Part 3

1 tim 6:

1 Timothy 6:17–19 NET

Command those who are rich in this world’s goods not to be haughty or to set their hope on riches, which are uncertain, but on God who richly provides us with all things for our enjoyment. Tell them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, to be generous givers, sharing with others.In this way they will save up a treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the future and so lay hold of what is truly life.

An interesting note is that the bible never preaching against having money.

But it does tell the rich people how they are to live.

What are the instructions he gives to the rich?

Don’t be arrogant: People can believe they are better than others

Don’t place your hope in wealth: Many can make us feel safe, but it will live us disappointed and hopeless

Hope in God: when our hope is in God that is true riches.

Do what is good: Share, give, be generous

6: How do we maintain a healthy balance between valuing money and contentment?

Should i value money?

7: What does it mean to store up treasures in heaven?

8. What truths about God help you put your hope in him rather than possessions?

9: Think about it: How does your life demonstrate you love Jesus and not money or material things?

12: Think about it: what needs are you aware of that would require sacrifice? How will you meet them?