What Does the Bible Say About Contentment?
What Does the Bible Say About Contentment? The Bible teaches that godliness with contentment is great gain, and believers can learn to be content in all circumstances through Christ's strength.
Key verse: Philippians 4:11 (KJV)
The Bible teaches that godliness with contentment is great gain, and believers can learn to be content in all circumstances through Christ's strength.
The Bible teaches that godliness with contentment is great gain, and believers can learn to be content in all circumstances through Christ's strength.
"Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content." — Philippians 4:11 (KJV)
Meaning
Plain-language explanation
In Context
Surrounding KJV scripture
Related Verses
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The Biblical Answer
Paul's testimony in Philippians 4:11-13 is the Bible's most powerful statement on contentment: 'I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.' He wrote this from prison, demonstrating that contentment isn't dependent on circumstances. Paul declared he knew how to be abased and how to abound, finding strength in Christ for every situation. In 1 Timothy 6:6-8, he adds that 'godliness with contentment is great gain' and that having food and clothing should be sufficient. Contentment doesn't mean lacking ambition but rather finding peace and satisfaction in God's provision while trusting His plan, whether in abundance or need.
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Key Scripture References
"Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content."
"But godliness with contentment is great gain."
"Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee."
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Related Questions
What Is Covetousness According to the Bible?
Covetousness is an intense desire for what belongs to others, prohibited by the Tenth Commandment and described by Paul as idolatry.
What Does the Bible Say About Jealousy and Envy?
The Bible identifies jealousy and envy as destructive sins that rot the bones and urges believers to find contentment in God's provision.
What Does the Bible Say About Money?
The Bible teaches that money itself is not evil, but the love of money is the root of all evil, and believers must be wise stewards of their finances.
What Does the Bible Say About Love?
The Bible defines love not as a feeling but as a sacrificial choice — modeled perfectly by God's gift of His Son.
How Do You Forgive Others According to the Bible?
Biblical forgiveness means releasing bitterness and choosing not to hold someone's offense against them — just as God in Christ forgave us.
Deep Dive Commentary
For a more in-depth study, read our verse-by-verse commentary:
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Read it in context
The answer above sits inside Philippians. The 365-day chronological plan reads it in the order the events happened.
Read Philippians on day 341 of the chronological Bible reading planKeep the verses to hand
Every verse quoted in “What Does the Bible Say About Contentment?” comes from the King James Version, free to download and print.
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