Sword and Shield

Heart Guide for Lesson 19:
Godly Contentment

Scriptural examples of envy and jealousy.

Cain (which means 'to get' or covet) was envious of Abel (Genesis 4:3-5).
Haggar's conception produced envy in Sarah (Genesis 21:9-11).
The Philistines envied Isaac for his wealth (Genesis 26:12-16).
Joseph's brothers envied him because Jacob favored Joseph (Genesis 37:3-11; Acts 7:9).
Korah's rebellion grew out of envy of Moses and Aaron (Numbers 16:1-3; Psalm 106:16-18).
King Saul became envious of David's successes and favor with the people (1 Samuel 18:8-9).
Pilate knew that the chief priests delivered Jesus up because of envy (Mark 15:9-10).  

God's antidote for envy and jealousy is resting content with His plans and provision.

Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:11-13 ESV

Now there is great gain in godliness with contentment, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content. 1 Timothy 6:6-8 ESV

Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.' Hebrews 13:5 ESV

Scriptures affirm to us that our Father is an excellent provider.

Trust in the Lord, and do good;dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness.Delight yourself in the Lord,and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:3-4 ESV

'Therefore do not be anxious, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.' Matthew 6:31-33 ESV

God's ways (of providing) are not always what we might expect.

'For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.' Isaiah 55:8-9 ESV

'Yet the house of Israel says, 'The way of the Lord is not just.' O house of Israel, are my ways not just? Is it not your ways that are not just?' Ezekiel 18:29 ESV  

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