At the start of every American Football season, you hear all of the motivational speeches and slogans from the football coaches. They print t-shirts and posters to remind their players what will bring success on the field. All of this will be forgotten at the end of the season except by the winning teams. Paul gives a formula for success for Christians, but it isn’t anything like a motivational slogan.
1 TIMOTHY 6:6
“But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment.”
Great Gain
Paul gives Timothy the formula for success as a Christian. Godliness with contentment is the way to great gain. Let’s break this down, so we understand what Paul is saying. Godliness is what it sounds like. You act like God in your behavior and words. This is manifested by obeying Scripture. Contentment is being okay with what you have and where you are. Great gain is another term for success. By obeying God’s Word and not striving for the next thing, you can find what you are looking for.
Counter Culture
You are not going to hear any success guru give you this formula. These people are all about action, goals, and accomplishment. To focus on being like Jesus and waiting for God to give you what your heart desires goes counter-culture to their message. This is precisely what Paul is saying. Following Jesus is often doing the opposite of what the world tells you. You have to be willing to go against the flow.
Formula for Success
You need to understand that while great gain can happen, this is easier said than done. Godliness is a constant struggle between the flesh and spirit. Contentment can come and go in waves. One moment you are good, and the next, you are desiring a new gadget. The key is to commit to the journey. Don’t go and sell everything unless God is telling you. Instead, live each day as a child of God who wants to improve in these areas. Commit it to prayer and get back up when you fail. String together enough of these days, and you will discover yourself well down the path.