Big Idea — True contentment is found in who we have, not in what we have. Philippians 4:11–13 (NLT) 11 Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. 12 I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. 13 For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Contentment Is Learned, Not . Philippians 4:11 (NLT) Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. “I have learned to kiss the wave that throws me against the Rock of Ages.” ~ Charles Spurgeon There’s A To Contentment. 12 I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. My secret — my contentment isn’t found in what I have, but in who I have: Jesus. “You don’t realize Jesus is all you need until Jesus is all you have.” ~ Timothy Keller QUESTION: Am I discontented because Jesus isn’t enough for me? Jesus Strengthens Us By Us. 13 For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Jesus: 1. Shifts your source of contentment: The gospel frees you from basing your self-worth on success, possessions, or circumstances. For Christians, knowing & being loved by Jesus is enough. 2. Refocuses your heart on contentment & trust : Contentment is rooted in your trust that God will provide all your needs. Matthew 6:31–33 (NLT) 31 “So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ 32 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. 33 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. 3. Provides a hope that transcends circumstances: He gives you a future hope for resurrection & restoration that surpasses any temporary hardship. 4. Fills us with His power through weakness: Jesus’s strength is most evident when you acknowledge your weakness. Therefore, he empowers you not by removing difficulties but by transforming how you approach them. True contentment comes from knowing & cherishing Jesus, not from collecting comforts. What Now? Reflect on areas where discontentment has taken root. Take one practical step toward contentment: Redefine your “needs”, simplify your life, purge triggers, try minimalism, practice gratitude, trust God’s provision. Cherish Jesus more than you collect comforts — is he enough for me? CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION 1. Why do you think discontentment (or malcontentment?) is so common in our modern culture? 2. In your personal life, a. how do you define what a “need” is? b. how would you rate yourself on “trusting God” to meet your needs? 3. For anyone who is comfortable being transparent with the group for a moment — do you ever sense any symptoms of underlying discontentment you’d be willing to confess? a. (Ex: jealousy, envy, bitterness / resentment, greed, failing to rejoice w/those who rejoice, ungrateful, thoughts of entitlement, depression & hopelessness, _______ other?) 4. Reflect on this statement: My contentment is found in who I have (Jesus), not in what I have. AKA — True contentment comes from knowing & cherishing Jesus, not from collecting comforts. a. What do you cherish about Jesus?