Contentment is an important component of Christian living. We do not need to continuously strive for a better job, a better house, a better car, a better vacation, or a better bank account. We should be content in all our circumstances as Christians. In fact, Paul speaks of contentment in all circumstances when he writes, “I can do all things through the One who strengthens me” (Phil 4:13).

Nevertheless, in the same letter, Paul does say one thing that he strives for and longs after. He is willing to throw everything aside – money, status, power, friendships, his life – to attain this goal. He strives for this:

“That I may know [Christ] and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, that by any means possible I may attain the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Phil 3:10–14, ESV; emphasis mine).

Brothers and sisters, we are no longer our own. We are paradoxically both slaves and sons of the Creator of the universe. We were bought at a price (1 Cor 6:20). We need to lay aside every weight that hinders us from attaining this goal which Paul sets before himself and before us. I realized that I needed to sell my video game console because I knew that it wastes my time. I also realized I need to watch less TV and spend time benefiting to others or myself. I need to spend less money on things I want and give more to the poor. I need to stop seeking sources of pleasure and be satisfied in Yahweh, in whose presence is “fullness of joy” and in whose hand is “pleasures forever” (Ps 16:11). This is the best life you and I can live in this world. Why settle for less?