Parenting by the Book
STUDY 318
Text: Proverbs 27
29 July 2007
Dear Parents,
CONTENTMENT
Few are contented with their lot in life. How wonderful it is to be so contented, that we do not covet anything, from anyone. Here is an interesting description of a person who is truly contented.
A satisfied soul loathes the honeycomb,
But to a hungry soul every bitter thing is sweet.Proverbs 27:7
1. A satisfied soul
a) He is not envious of what others may possess.
b) He is happy (satisfied) with what he has.
c) Even if he is offered something as sweet as a “honeycomb” he will turn it down flat. (The word “loathe” tells us that he is not in the least tempted by the offer.)
2. A hungry soul
a) He is not satisfied with his lot in life.
b) He will grab at anything that comes his way.
c) Even if what comes his way is “bitter” he will still insist that it is “sweet”.
CULTIVATING A SPIRIT OF HAPPY CONTENTMENT
The apostle Paul had this to say to Timothy concerning the cultivation of a happy and contented spirit. These words ought to be borne in mind and taught to our children.
Now godliness with contentment is great gain.
For we brought nothing into this world,
And it is certain that we can carry nothing out.
And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content.1 Timothy 6:6-8
1. Godliness and contentment is truly great gain.
2. A harsh reality that at death we can take nothing along with us.
3. Practise being contented with having “food and clothing”.
Prayerfully,
Pastor Charlie