Satisfaction

“Money Can’t Buy Happiness.” This was the conclusion of an exhaustive study recently published by the American Psychological Association. This study, which examined data from 63 countries, found that “money leads to autonomy but it does not add to well-being or happiness.”

Once basic needs are met, “more money leads to marginal gains at best or even less well-being.” Instead, as people increase their earnings, they tend to become more competitive. They no longer focus on their needs but about “keeping up with the Joneses.”

We see these kinds of patterns every day, for the culture around us encourages us to feel dissatisfied and incomplete. Advertising compels us to crave more and seek to possess what we don’t have.

In practical terms, there often are justifiable reasons to buy new things. But the problem is not with things but with our hearts—our misguided attitudes and expectations. The Bible urges us to remember what happens so easily to our money: “What good is wealth—except perhaps to watch it slip through your fingers!” (Ecclesiastes 5:11 NLT)

Jesus taught that the only people who truly are satisfied are those who aren’t obsessed with things but rather those who “hunger and thirst for righteousness.” Such people place a higher emphasis on doing what is right than on expanding what they own. They are focused on the quality of life rather than their quantity of possessions. How simple! How profound!

In your life, seek to keep your eyes on God. Spend time daily in prayer, committing your needs to Him (Philippians 4:6-7). Trust Him to supply every need. Instead of being controlled by the world, seek first His Kingdom.

Ask the Lord to help you do what is right in every situation. Practice contentment. And develop a spirit of thankfulness for all that God has provided for you. As you seek His Kingdom and focus on doing what is right, He promises that you will experience more of His blessings.