FIVE SECRETS OF CONTENTMENT

1. Love people. One sure way to fulfillment in life is to get out of your way to help someone else. In fact, I would like to ask, do you ever feel invisible? I mean, do you ever feel like you’re not noticed? Well, I’ve got news for you. God knows you completely and loves you completely. You’re never invisible to God because He always sees you. When you know you are not alone, that God is always with you all the way, there’ll be spring in your steps. Now that you know that you are loved by our Heavenly Father, it’s up to you to express love to your world by lifting someone up with perhaps a little word of encouragement, a gift, a good advice, or compliment.
2. Don’t compare yourself with others. We may be tempted to compare ourselves with others. Sometimes with those who we think have less than we have, often with those who are stronger, wealthier, or more talented than we are. Either way, the effect is always bound to be negative. We erroneously believe that a person’s worth is determined by what he has or what he is able to do. If not checked, we may end up stirred up by feelings of envy and a spirit of competition.One solution to this negative attitude is to see your self the way God sees you. Allow God’s Word to influence your sense of self-worth. Begin to see the good things you have rather than what you think you don’t have. Always remember, you are the only you that exists-you are peculiar. You are unique and there’s no one like you. Thus, never look down on your self by comparing your self with others.

3. Maintain an appreciative attitude. We may feel compelled to cram our already hectic lives with more and more activities. We may become so burdened by problems or engrossed in pursuing our own interests that we don’t have time to appreciate what we already have or to express appreciation for what others do for us.A solution to avoiding a stressed life is to make time to meditate on the good things you now enjoy. Think about what others have done to help you, and express appreciation for their efforts. Why don’t you make a written list of the things for which you are grateful? This will help you maintain an appreciative attitude and remain content.

4. Find the right company/association. It’s important to note that friends can help us to be content or undermine our contentment. When you are in the company of friends who are never satisfied, it is difficult to be content. Choose your friends wisely. They can make you or mar you. Choose friends who have your best interest at heart. Avoid friends who complain and murmur. Their attitudes and conversations are bound to affect your outlook on life. Always remember, evil company corrupts good manners.
5. Rely on God. To live a life of contentment, you’ll have to rely on God and not your own strength. One sure way to rely on God’s strength is to meditate on His Word. God’s Word has the ability to help you through life. As we seek to live a life pleasing to our Heavenly Father, let’s always remember that God is ever for us and not against us. “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. If God be for us, who can be against us?...” (Rom 8:28).