Godliness
For some, godliness can be a bit of a mystery. Paul, as an apostle and a spiritual father, highly values this trait when encouraging and instructing his son in the faith, Timothy.
1 Timothy 6:6 Now godliness with contentment is great gain.
I often define this word, godliness, as being someone who knows they have a God and holds Him in great reverence by learning His desires and seeking to live them out. It’s about being like God in actions, thoughts, and motivations, and wanting to please God through one's life.
Strong's shows us that in Greek, the word refers to piety, especially within the gospel scheme: godliness and holiness.
This trait in someone, combined with a contented heart, Paul says, is a great gain.
Why is that? Paul explains:
1 Timothy 6:7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content.
Have you ever gained something material you cherished and then lost it due to unforeseen circumstances? That’s the idea here conveyed by Paul. Material things have a limited lifespan. They may seem to have the power to make you happy in the moment or for a season, but they lack the lasting power and true contentment that comes from being godly.
Paul isn't warning us with a scolding; he’s presenting a better, more fulfilling alternative—one that offers greater gain.
The world’s slogan, "He who dies with the most toys wins,” is a significant deception. I prefer the wisdom Jesus offers. All of this I've spoken of reminds me of something Jesus taught:
Luke 12:16 Then He spoke a parable to them, saying: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded plentifully. 17 And he thought within himself, saying, “What shall I do, since I have no room to store my crops?’ 18 So he said, “I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build greater, and there I will store all my crops and my goods. 19 And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry.” 20 But God said to him, “Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?’ 21 “So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.”
What do we have at birth? Nothing! And at death? Nothing! Since we come into this world with nothing and leave with nothing, material possessions cannot provide lasting happiness.
Sadly, many today undervalue or overlook the blessing and richness of godliness with contentment, spiritually speaking. If we choose to please the flesh in this life, we might enjoy some temporary pleasures. However, living that way often leads to a distracted life, only occasionally fulfilling God's true purpose for us—the real destiny He has planned. There’s no regret in living a godly life with contentment. Such a life allows us to focus on what God has intended and enjoy the adventure He guides us through. We journey with Him, witnessing His work in the lives of others and experiencing His blessings.
Adopting His perspective on the blessing of godliness will enrich our lives far beyond the fleeting satisfaction of material things and their experiences. I encourage you to desire godliness with contentment.
