Breaking the Cycle of Discontentment
Have you ever been stuck in a cycle of discontentment?
I have. For me, it usually starts with a desire for something new. Whether it’s a brand-new outfit, an adventure to a new area, or just some fresh home decor items from Hobby Lobby, there is a void I feel in my heart that I often believe something I buy, wear, or do could fill it up.
Next, I acquire that “new” thing. I get the clothes, I decorate my apartment just like the Pinterest pictures, or I take that trip, and for a little while, I feel satisfied. I get a rush of excitement and happiness; life doesn’t feel as empty. But that feeling doesn’t last for long. When I look around and see someone with a cuter outfit, a nicer apartment, or a more desirable lifestyle, my want for more suddenly grows and the pattern repeats itself. Each time I go through this cycle I’m left feeling emptier than the time before.
Now don’t get me wrong, the desires we have are not always bad, in fact, many of them are good and come from God. It’s when we look to those things to fill us up that we run into problems and ultimately experience dissatisfaction.
In John 10:10, Jesus says he has come to give us a “rich and satisfying life.” I believe that this kind of life is something we can take hold of here on earth, but it is only made possible through a relationship with Jesus. With Him, we don’t have to live in a constant cycle of discontentment, but instead, we can experience joy and abundance no matter what we have or what we are going through.
As someone who regularly struggles with discontentment, believing that the life God has for me is more fulfilling than what I want is easier said than done. Over the past few years, I have become more aware of this weakness and God has graciously revealed a few ways to help me choose abundant life over discontentment.
Prioritize gratitude. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 reminds us to “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and give thanks in all circumstances…” This verse points out that there is always something to be grateful for. If I begin to feel an over desire for a thing or experience in life, I try to remind myself of what God has already blessed me with. When I take the time to write down what I’m thankful for, I can usually fill up pages with examples of God’s goodness. He is the best gift-giver I know, and it’s important to celebrate what He’s blessed us with!
Give. Selfishness is a breeding ground for discontentment. When the only person I’m focused on is myself, I experience dissatisfaction. Serving and loving those around me is often the antidote to my discontentment. Giving could look like writing a letter to someone who needs encouragement, filling a need for someone who is going through a rough time, or praying for someone God has placed on your heart. There are endless opportunities to give of your time, money, and resources!
Remember the cross. When feelings of discontentment overwhelm me, I’ve learned that the best way to combat them is to remember what Jesus did for me on the cross. Thinking about how He died to give me eternal life and restore my relationship with God puts everything in a new perspective. The things that seemed so important to me slowly fade into the background, and living to honor the one who gave everything for me becomes all that truly matters.
Hebrews 13:5 says, “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’”
You and I have the opportunity to engage in a relationship with the God who will never let us go… what more could we ever need?
If you need help finding contentment in your season of life, counseling may be a great option for you. Visit www.thebreakingground.com/faqs for more information about our counseling services.
