But godliness with contentment is a great gain. For we brought nothing into the world,and we can take nothing out.
1 Timothy 6:6-7 (HCSB)
A young computer scientist, fresh out of college with a PhD in IT, decides to make a lot of money in record time. He believes that his PhD will earn him more money than anyone else in a company. During his first interview, instead of trying to make a good impression to get the job, he focuses on the amount of his salary. At the end of the interview, the manager tells him that he may have a degree but that experience is worth much more. In the end, he went home without getting the job.
Although different from their context, this situation is similar to what we encounter in our churches today. Many who claim to be believers, instead of seeking sanctification and living a godly life, seek to elevate themselves above others by obtaining the riches of the earth. Their aspirations are to have titles, positions and the amount of money that goes with them. They forget that nothing they have will be of any use to them on the day of the Lord.
It is not always easy for anyone to endure pain, hunger, and nakedness. However, trials are part of our life on earth. We must learn to be content with what we have, because God knows what we need to be happy. Psalm 37:25 tells us, "I have been young, and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken or his children begging bread." In this sense, it is better to pursue godliness, because God will never cease to care for you. This is the greatest gain.
May the grace and peace of God be with you all.
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