Striving to be Content

But 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.

~ I Timothy 6:6-8 ~

There are times in life that I struggle with being content with where we are at or what we are doing. I am extremely grateful for the many blessings that the Lord has bestowed upon us. We have food (good food), water, and nice shelter from the elements. We have more than one vehicle which allows us not to be without transportation when D’s truck and motorcycle go out of commission. (Praise… D’s truck finally is back up and running after having been down for nearly 1 1/2 months! We’re praying that all issues have been resolved as sinking more money into parts and repairs would not be a good thing. lol!) We have the homeschool curriculum that we need and want for the year. We’ve been blessed with review items at just the right times. Yes, I can see very clearly that the Lord is taking care of not only our needs, but also some of our wants.

Then why am I struggling with discontentment? Simply put… I have a strong desire to finally put down roots – to have a home to call our own. Yes, I admit that the little green monster does rear its ugly head now and again when I see/hear people talk about being rooted in the community. I’m beginning to understand the settling down itch that comes with getting towards the end of a military career. You still have more time to put in before retirement, but you start to seriously dream and think about the future. You’re walking a tightrope as you try to balance being content with where you’re at and preparing for the time after the military. It’s not always easy to find the proper balance which is where I’m at right now – a little off balance, seeking that true contentment.

The truth is that I normally embrace the military life. There are just times that you long for something a little different even though you are ever grateful for the gifts that Lord has given. I think it’s okay as long as we don’t dwell on the “what ifs” and seek to remain content and grounded in the present. I want to feel the Lord’s presence and guidance in our lives which is difficult to do when envy/discontent – sin – take root in my heart. So, I focus on the wonderful life that we have now, and the unique opportunities that we’ve been given. Oh, I won’t stop planning for the future, but I will make sure that I focus on the here and now. Munchkin’s growing up too fast to not live in the present. I want to enjoy our life from day-to-day and look forward to seeing what the Lord may have in store for our future.