Real Hope: ContentmentSample

A Rhythm

My toes nestled into the sand like an old sweater that fit perfectly. Familiar and safe. I lifted my gaze to the pristine turquoise water that ebbed and flowed metres from my toes and, without prompt or thought, my lungs instinctively pulled in a deep breath and released it, along with it the challenges and troubles from the day leaving me feeling lighter. I didn’t know how things were going to play out. I didn’t know if my business would become all I was hoping and dreaming it to be. I didn’t know if I was going to find a new place to live. But in that moment, all the stress, all the worry, the dreams, and hopes seemed to suspend themselves out of my vision as I stared at the water. Contentment rested in my soul.

That’s the power of the ocean for me. I breathe again when I am around it and everything that seems to matter, matters no more. I feel content in the knowledge that, if God can command the sea to come only this far, then He has the power to turn around my worries and fears. He can redeem any situation. He sees to all my needs. I can simply let go. I can be content in the unknown.

Contentment, I have found, is not a destination. It is a rhythm. Always able to be found when we seek it, but unobtainable if we don’t make it a habit to pursue. Setting down the things that consume our minds and filling our spirits with the presence of God – in whatever form you pursue (worship, scripture, community, etc.) – leads to contentment. This rhythm ushers in peace and allows us to focus on the One who has overcome the world and offers us contentment in His presence.

Written by NERI MORRIS