Growing Contentment

When content, our hearts will wrap around the people and places where we live. We relish a hug, the sunshine, or a walk around our neighbourhood, finding even the smallest of beauties along the way. Contentment is all about owning our people, our season in life and the land where we live. It is being thankful for God and what He has given us. The reality is that when depressed or unwell we may feel less content in life. We may find ourselves asking God for joys of the next stage, resources or just for mental and emotional relief. Ask, God cares about our every need.

Life can also involve being creative to make the most of what we do have to work with. When we are functioning well we can make many things possible. When we’re not we may need to ask others for ideas and support. Sometimes we can break out of expectations for how to do life and so find a shift in ourselves. Leaning into change can help us find more contentment. God has endless possibilities of how we can live creatively.

Pairing Up

Working small changes in how we do things can affect our well-being. For example, my season of life with a young family, involves a fair bit of housework. Like many people, I don’t get excited about housework or exercising. Pairing up activities can increase feelings of satisfaction and contentment. I enjoy a fast walk more when I’m talking and walking with friends. One friend prays with me on the hoof as we end our walk. I find it good for the soul to get some household tasks done listening to an inspiring message or audio Bible. These activities both engage me physically, mentally/emotionally and spiritually. The walk with a friend is also social – so it’s a great combo and catch up. To add to this there’s the added reward of exercising and cleaning while focusing on something else.

We need activities that together address all the aspects of our well-being. It can be helpful to be mindful of these aspects when thinking about the activities we plan. Making regular dates for activities helps with routines and structures. For many activities, it gives us something to look forward to in a day. When unwell I needed to consciously plan to see people every day. Sometimes we get stuck and could benefit from a trusted friend helping us look at new possibilities. Start small and be gentle on yourself. A walk with a friend at your pace can be a great place to start – and it’s free. You may find someone grateful for the invite as they could do with the exercise too.

Making the Most

Contentment is a quality I’ve found to have a big impact on my well-being. Discovering contentment in our stage of life is to welcome peace. Contentment is quiet radiant gratitude for even a pocket of goodness. Remind yourself that as a believer you have every spiritual blessing through Christ Jesus (Ephesians 1:3). You are chosen in love and adopted as God’s child (1:5). You have the Holy Spirit helping and strengthening you. It’s worth meditating on.

Contentment is making the most of our lives. It is also accepting things in the now, while seeking change for the future. I’ve found rhythms of life wise for me right now. It is possible to accept limitations while having faith in God for more freedom. I believe we can know peace and contentment amidst this tension. I know there is personal growth and satisfaction when we weave together our needs and activities. I hope you feel the warmth or spark of contentment growing as you make the most of your season.

I hope you feel inspired by some of the questions or songs I link in at the bottom of a post. Do feel free to comment below or go to the home page to follow this blog by email.

Ngā mihi,

Bronnie

Noting: Questions to journal

a. What are some things you’re grateful for in this season of life? What are some challenges?

b. What are activities you could pair up? What are aspects of wellness you are need to strengthen e.g., physical and social.

c. If you feel stuck, who could you talk about this with?

Photo by Bronnie Leigh