Why is it we’re never satisfied?
As kids, we could hardly wait to grow up—to stay up late, drive a car, and never have to go to school.
As adults, we sometimes wish we were kids again—to play all day, take a nap, and never have to go to work.
As kids, time seemed to move slowly—especially when looking forward to a special event. Remember how L-O-O-O-N-G it took for Christmas to come?
As adults, time seems to move extremely fast—especially as Christmas approaches and the cards haven’t been sent, the gifts haven’t all been purchased yet, and the tree still sits in a bucket of water on the back porch.
We go shopping and come home with new place mats, some pillows for the family room, and a new quilt for the bed. For a while we’re delighted over the difference those items make to the decor.
Bedroom (Photo credit: Supermariolxpt)
In no time, though, our focus shifts from those lovely things to other “needs” we identify around the house.
Reminds me of what the oil tycoon, John D. Rockefeller (1837-1939) said. He was asked, “How much is enough?” And he answered, “A little bit more.”
John D. Rockefeller ca. 1875
This from a man with an estimated fortune of $1.4 billion. In fact, Rockefeller was one of the wealthiest persons of all history. Not even Bill Gates or Sam Walton can come close.
Before we dismiss Mr. Rockefeller as selfish and greedy, though, it’s important to know he was generous with his fortune. His financial records indicate that $550 million were donated to schools, health organizations, scientific research, and the arts.
But his comment (perhaps spoken with a twinkle of humor in his eye) speaks to the attitude of many. We believe that with just a little more, we’d be content.
That’s a lie.
So what is the truth of the matter? What is the real reason we’re never satisfied?
The answer might be that contentment is the result of our focus. Our attitude is impacted by what occupies our thoughts. Therefore, we would be wise to:
1. Stay focused on who we are right now, and where we are right now. Every age and stage has its advantages and disadvantages. Which column is worth our attention?
2. Stay focused on what God is providing, what we have currently. “Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see a shadow” (Helen Keller).
3. Stay focused on God’s attributes and blessings. “The fear of the Lord leads to life: then one rests content, untouched by trouble” (Proverbs 19:23).
To fear the Lord means to have reverence and awe for him. Such an attitude leads to many benefits in life, including:
- peace of mind, because our powerful and loving God is in control
- joy of heart, because of the pleasure in his bountiful blessings,
- contentment of spirit, because we’ve already received so much.
That’s how I want to live—totally satisfied, in complete serenity, as a worshipful tribute to my gracious God.
* * * * * * * * * *
Thank you, Heavenly Father, for the gifts of serenity and satisfaction, when I focus on you. May my days be filled with your praise!
Photo credits: www.wikipedia.com , www.flickr.com , www.treasuretheordinary.blogspot.com
From the Inside Out 
Great post and a good reminder!
Thank you, Frances. In writing I reminded myself!
I, too, want my days to be filled with His praise. You and Steve are in my prayers, cousin. Love you so much. May God use this blog to encourage many and draw people to our precious Savior.
Thank you, Nikki. SO appreciate your prayers. Know that you two are also on our regular prayer list!
Thanks, Nancy.
Buck had a lipoma removed from his hip today. All is well.
I remember of reading an anecdote on JDR who was hated and faced a crisis when under Teddy Roosevelt I think, for breaking anti-Trust laws and he was sure to lose the case. He came across the words of Paul ‘It’s more blessed to give …'(Ac 20:35). His foundation and works of charity may owe to this crisis. The verse I Ti. 6:7 that I read as a child had a great influence in my development. Never to desire for anything but in ‘God who gives us richly all things to enjoy..'(vs.17).I never had occasion to doubt on the promises of God.
What a legacy of faith to pass on to the next generation: “I never had occasion to doubt the promises of God.” Thank you for stopping by Benny, and leaving a comment!
Nancy, I like the title of this: ‘Satisfaction Guaranteed.’ Truly. I’ve been camping in the Beatitudes and v. 6 (in the Amplified) really speaks to me: “Blessed and fortunate and happy and spiritually prosperous are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be completely satisfied.”
The Holy Spirit has been hammering home this idea of hungering for God alone. Great reminder here.
‘Love the Amplified version! Those four adjectives do indeed describe a glorious way to live: blessed, fortunate, happy, and spiritually prosperous. Righteousness and satisfaction do result as our attention is increasingly focused on God alone. Thank you for your insights, Jody!
This post is a good reminder where to place my focus. Things just don’t get it, but God does. God bless you Nancy.
Thank you, Laura. As I said to Frances above, in the writing I was reminding myself. I’m still striving for automaticity!
One of the things I love most about your blog is your frequent references to people who lived before we were born…like, in this case…J.D. Rockefeller. I was impressed by his charity work mentioned above.
In spite of the World (admittedly myself, as well) focusing on obtaining the newest technology, a new rug, etc., the only true contentment, joy, and peace of mind comes from listening and obeying that still small voice inside… Thanks for that much-needed reminder. (I especially loved the quote from Helen Keller. What an amazing woman!)
‘Glad there is someone else who enjoys history! As you can see from a couple of comments above, I need reminding of spiritual truths myself. Working on this blog each day does help to achieve that purpose!