Wisdom Wednesday: Tranquility

“A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot” (Proverbs 14:30 ESV).

I’m sure we can all think of a time when we wanted something, but did not have the means to acquire it. If not as an adult, we certainly can remember that toy, game, bike or pony we wanted as a child. We got ourselves all worked up wishing and praying for it. We imagined just how much better life would be if we only had this one thing; we would never need anything else ever again!

Then, once the final birthday or Christmas present was opened, our expectant anticipation shattered to the floor. Our thoughts were not focused on the good things we had received, only on our disappointment from not getting that one thing we desperately desired.

If we fail to learn contentment and gratitude while we’re young, the pattern will continue, but the objects of our covetousness become more expensive. Unfortunately, age and employment may provide us access to credit, allowing us to bypass delay the disappointment. We may get what we want, when we want it, but spending that which we have yet to earn can put our future in jeopardy. “Envy makes the bones rot.” “Because he knew no contentment in his belly, he will not let anything in which he delights escape him” (Job 20:20 ESV).

Paul told Timothy, “…godliness with contentment is great gain, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content” (1 Timothy 6:6-8 ESV).

A tranquil heart in found in godly contentment. Godly contentment doesn’t mean we can’t have nice things to enjoy; it means that our peace and joy do not depend on those nice things. Our peace and joy are found in Christ and in the provision He provides for us.

We should always be mindful of contentment, but especially so during this season of giving and receiving. If we are truly thankful for that which we have, a content and tranquil heart will enliven our spirits.

Blessings on your day!