Finding Contentment

For my 50th birthday, my wife blessed me with a new Harley Road King Classic. I was flying high! Previously, I had a competitive bike, but it just didn’t sound like a Harley, it didn’t look like a Harley, and most of all, it didn’t ride like a Harley.

I absolutely loved the classic retro look the new bike had. My wife and I loved riding it, but over time we discovered that the bike was limited for use as a ministry ride. We needed more storage room to carry ministry materials, and when we rode two up, it was not comfortable for longer trips. Whereas we were content with the bike when we got it, we came to a point where we had to consider making a change.

When we replaced the Road King we searched the different models of bikes, accessories, storage, and riding comfort. We relied on advice from several friends, as well as seeking guidance in prayer. By becoming open to advice, we went from challenges the Road King presented to being more contented with a new Ultra Classic Limited.

A similar issue occurred when we decided we needed to replace our truck. It was a gasoline-powered Ford F-350, and it used a lot of fuel. We also found in some of the steep hilly roads in North Georgia, pulling a heavy toy hauler and bike, that the truck almost bogged down and quit. It was a great truck, but we really needed the diesel torque to get the job done. Again, we had been more than contented when we got the gas truck, but once we started going into hilly terrain we had to make a change.

The Bible tells us, in Philippians 4:12, “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, weather well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty, or in want.” This lesson teaches us to focus on living contentedly, not just concerning our physical needs or wants, but our spiritual contentment as well.

We can find that level of contentment by trusting Jesus. With Him staying close by, we can gain a sense of peace and calm as He leads us through everything. By calling on Jesus as our Lord, we have an advocate who oversees all that occurs us in our lives. By studying the Bible, and praying, we can learn and grow in our walk with Jesus. Over time, through our love for Jesus and living our lives for Him, we go from having a lack of contentment to growing a joyous peace.

If your life is lacking in happiness, call on the One that can show you the way. Jesus not only wants to fill your life with pleasure, but He is also waiting for you to call on Him to make the difference in your life.

In the Wind,
Denny Dingler