I watched my spiritual father closely that day at the conference, and all I could say was; “I want this serenity and contentment I see in my father.” Over the years, my spiritual father has modelled contentment in life and ministry.
Friend, contentment is a kingdom virtue that you have got to live by. Contentment is not the same as complacency. Complacency is accepting the status quo and refusing to push for something better even when you know it is God’s will for you. Contentment is enjoying where you are on the road to where you are going (Psalms 118:24).
It is easy for covetousness to creep into the lives of people without knowing (Luke 12:15). It subtly manifests in sudden loss of interest in what you were proud of before in your life simply because you saw your neighbour has something better. Covetousness is wanting what God is not giving you or wanting what God plans to give you at the wrong time or in a wrong way.
Some people’s prayer points are fueled by greed, envy, and strife (Mark 10:37-41). It is the need to outshine and outdo others. The need to make a statement that God is also good to you. This was the problem of Hannah; she was initially asking for a child to make a statement (1 Samuel 1:6-10).
God is not going to answer prayers fueled by envy, strife, and greed (James 4:1-8). Perhaps your prayers have been delayed because you are asking for the wrong reason (1 Samuel 1:11). God is not giving you stuff because He is giving your neighbour, but because He has it in His plans for you. While it is good to be inspired by what people have, it must not stir up envy and greed in our hearts.
You become vulnerable when you allow greed in your heart. The bait of destruction is greed, and the cure for greed is contentment. What God has for you would not pass you by; wait for it and cooperate with God to birth it (James 1:17). Also, learn to celebrate what God is doing in the lives of others while remaining confident that God is coming through for you (Hebrews 13:5). You will testify!
‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria