Paul learned to be content even when the situation was not perfect (Philippians 4:11). Absolute contentment may be the goal of some, but woe to the man who finds it. When we are completely content with what we are thinking and doing and there never comes a need in our lives to do more or do better, we lose a precious part of living: that of facing challenges. We are created for something greater than all we can find in this life. If our goal is only this life, we will be miserable.

Paul noted that if in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied (1 Corinthians 15:19). We should constantly be desiring to do more, to be greater than we are. There is something unfinished in us, because in spite of our frail bodies we are called the children of God and destined to live for eternity (1 Thessalonians 5:5). Paul points out that this mortal must put on immortality. We are to bear the image of the heavenly man (1 Corinthians 15:49, 1 Corinthians 15:53). Learn to be content, but know that there is a much greater destiny that will always require your effort. Know the difference.