Contend for More, Content With LessSample

Day 1: Introduction – The Paradox of Contending and Contentment

Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 12:10, Matthew 10:39, Isaiah 55:9

As followers of Christ, we are called to live within a paradox—something that seems self-contradictory but holds a deeper, often hidden, truth. Paradoxes can be confusing because they appear illogical on the surface. They make us think, question, and dig deeper to find meaning. Common examples include “The more you know, the more you realize you don’t know,” or “Less is more.” These phrases make us pause and reflect on life’s complexities. In Scripture, paradoxes are plentiful, showing us that God’s kingdom operates on principles that often go against our natural understanding. We see these paradoxes in verses like, “When I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10) and “Whoever finds their life will lose it” (Matthew 10:39). These statements remind us that God’s ways are higher than our ways, and His thoughts are higher than our thoughts (Isaiah 55:9).

The Christian paradox we’ll explore in this Bible plan is the call to contend and to be content. On the surface, contending and contentment seem contradictory. To contend means to struggle, fight, or press on, often toward a goal or outcome. To be content, on the other hand, means to find peace and satisfaction in what we already have. Yet the Bible encourages both: Paul says in Philippians 3:12-14 that he presses on toward the prize in Christ, and yet he also says in Philippians 4:11-13 that he has learned to be content in all circumstances. These ideas are not mutually exclusive but are two sides of the same coin in the Christian life.

As we delve deeper into this paradox, we’ll see that God calls us to be content in His provision and presence, finding peace in our current circumstances. However, He also calls us to contend, to press forward in faith, to pursue His promises, and to grow in our walk with Him. Both aspects are necessary for a balanced Christian life. Contentment without contending can lead to stagnation or apathy, while contending without contentment can lead to constant striving, stress, and even burnout. This paradox shows us that God desires both peace and purpose for us. He wants us to trust Him with what we have and where we are while also pursuing the fullness of His promises with persistence and faith.

In the following days, we’ll explore what it means to contend in the faith and pursue God’s promises, as well as what it means to be content and find satisfaction in His provision. Through these explorations, we will discover that our lives are meant to be both active and restful, both pursuing and at peace, as we trust in God’s grace and timing.

Reflection Questions:

1. What paradoxes have you noticed in your own life or in your faith? How do they shape your understanding of God?
2. How does the idea of balancing contending and contentment resonate with you? Which of these comes more naturally, and which one feels more challenging?