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    Contentment

    1 Timothy 6:6-8 Commentary

    In-depth meaning, historical context, and practical application

    Written by Bible Sundays Editorial TeamChecked by Bible Sundays Scripture DeskLast reviewed August 1, 2026Our editorial standards
    "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content."
    — 1 Timothy 6:6-8 (KJV)
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    Introduction

    Paul's formula for 'great gain' is surprising: not wealth plus godliness, but godliness plus contentment. True profit is wanting what you already have when you have God.

    Historical Context

    Paul was warning Timothy about false teachers who saw godliness as 'a means of gain' — using religion to get rich. Paul redefines gain entirely.

    Original Language Insights

    'Godliness' (eusebeia) — reverence, proper worship, God-centered living.

    'Contentment' (autarkeia) — self-sufficiency, inner satisfaction independent of circumstances. The Stoics used this word; Paul redefines it as sufficiency in God.

    'Great gain' (porismos megas) — enormous profit. The superlative is deliberate.

    'Content' (arkesthēsometha) — we shall be satisfied, we shall have enough.

    Theological Significance

    Contentment is presented not as resignation but as gain — the greatest kind. When you're content with God and basic provisions, you are wealthier than millionaires who always want more.

    Practical Application

    Calculate your 'gain' differently. If you have God, food, and clothing — you have 'great gain.' Practice gratitude for what you have rather than anxiety about what you lack.

    Cross-References & Related Scriptures

    Philippians 4:11-12

    "I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content."

    Paul practiced the contentment he preaches to Timothy.

    Hebrews 13:5

    "Be content with such things as ye have."

    The writer of Hebrews commands the same contentment.

    Prayer Response

    Lord, teach me that godliness with contentment is great gain. I brought nothing into this world and will take nothing out. If I have You, food, and clothing — I have enough. Amen.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is ambition wrong?

    No. Paul was incredibly ambitious for the gospel. The warning is against wealth-driven ambition that replaces contentment with covetousness. Ambition for God's glory is good; ambition for personal wealth at the expense of godliness is dangerous.

    Read commentary on surrounding verses

    Continue studying 1 Timothy 6 verse by verse:

    After · 1 Timothy 6:9Exact verse

    But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.

    Theme: The Snare of Wanting to Be Rich

    After · 1 Timothy 6:10Exact verse

    For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

    Theme: The Love of Money: Root of All Evil

    Nearest commentary in 1 Timothy

    Earlier · 5 ch back · 1 Timothy 1:15Nearest chapter

    This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.

    Theme: Salvation & Grace

    Earlier · 4 ch back · 1 Timothy 2:1-2Nearest chapter

    I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

    Theme: Prayer for Leaders

    Earlier · 2 ch back · 1 Timothy 4:12Nearest chapter

    Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

    Theme: Leadership

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    Related Bible Questions

    Common questions people ask about this passage — answered with KJV scripture.

    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.

    Read answer

    Quick Devotional

    For a shorter devotional reflection on related verses:

    Hebrews 13:5 – Meaning & Devotional

    "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."

    Hebrews 13:5 – Meaning & Devotional

    "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."

    1 Timothy 6:12 – Meaning & Devotional

    "Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses."

    Related Miracles

    Signs and wonders connected to this passage and its themes:

    Provision
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    Manna from Heaven

    God rained bread from heaven to feed Israel daily for forty years in the wilderness.

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    Provision
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    Water from the Rock

    Moses struck the rock at Horeb and water gushed out to give Israel drink.

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    Healing
    Old Testament

    The Bronze Serpent

    Bitten Israelites were healed by looking at a serpent of brass lifted up on a pole.

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    Provision
    New Testament

    The Miraculous Catch of Fish

    After a fruitless night, Peter let down the nets at Jesus' word and caught so many fish the nets began to break.

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    Q&A

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