"How to be content", Psalm 131

“How to be content”, Psalm 131

Introduction, v0

• QUESTION: “What does it mean to be content?”
• The goal is contentment
• NOT proud, BUT content, THEREFORE vision
• Hope not possible without contentment
• Spurgeon said it “..is one of the shortest psalms to read, but one of the longest to learn.” 

1. The Problem, v1

• What led to this decision? Presumably he had this problem. “NOT” X 3.

A. Why are we not content?

• Comparisons with others - God does not accept me
• Anxiety/Fear - God is not enough, cannot be trusted
  • Realisation we are not in control and we cannot manipulate God to get what we want
  • Some things God does not reveal: (Deut 29:29)
• Selfish ambition: (Ecclesiastes 4:8 NIV11)

B. The issue is NOT

• Ambition: (Philippians 3:12–14)

2. The Solution, v2

• Humility (Matthew 18:2–5). Self-awareness - we need God.

Aware of God’s presence and strength

• Bathsheba - aware of her / Goliath - aware of God - 1 Sam 17.37; 45-47
• Hebrews 13:5 - Want God more than things
• Philippians 4:11–13

QUESTION: “What helps you to be content?”

3. The Vision, v3

• Hope not possible without contentment

Living in hope

• Blessing others - active, not passive
• (Philippians 4:2–9 NIV11)

Conclusion

• Jesus’ inspiration - Confident in identity, value, Father’s love
• Therefore - courage to serve and sacrifice
• True contentment leads to the freedom to serve