“How to be content”, Psalm 131
Introduction, v0
- QUESTION: “What does it mean to be content?”
- The goal is contentment
- NOT proud, BUT content, THEREFORE vision
- Hope not possible without contentment
- Spurgeon said it “..is one of the shortest psalms to read, but one of the longest to learn.”
1. The Problem, v1
- What led to this decision? Presumably he had this problem. “NOT” X 3.
A. Why are we not content?
- Comparisons with others - God does not accept me
- Anxiety/Fear - God is not enough, cannot be trusted
- Realisation we are not in control and we cannot manipulate God to get what we want
- Some things God does not reveal: (Deut 29:29)
- Selfish ambition: (Ecclesiastes 4:8 NIV11)
B. The issue is NOT
- Ambition: (Philippians 3:12–14)
2. The Solution, v2
- Humility (Matthew 18:2–5). Self-awareness - we need God.
Aware of God’s presence and strength
- Bathsheba - aware of her / Goliath - aware of God - 1 Sam 17.37; 45-47
Hebrews 13:5 - Want God more than things- Philippians 4:11–13
QUESTION: “What helps you to be content?”
3. The Vision, v3
- Hope not possible without contentment
Living in hope
- Blessing others - active, not passive
- (Philippians 4:2–9 NIV11)
Conclusion
- Jesus’ inspiration - Confident in identity, value, Father’s love
- Therefore - courage to serve and sacrifice
- True contentment leads to the freedom to serve
Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.
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“Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)
God bless, Malcolm
PS: You might also be interested in my book:
"An elephant's swimming pool", a devotional look at the Gospel of John
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