Contentment- Acceptance- Serenity- Peace

II have counseled and coached many people this week who are struggling with accepting the result of the election in America. They fear what the future holds and they don’t know what to do.

We all struggle with not having control of things but there is hope…. We can shift perspectives and develop new goals to make the change from fear, anxiety, depression and anger to having contentment, acceptance serenity and peace. Here are a few tools to make the change..

1. Practice Daily Gratitude

Bible Verse: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18
New Habit: Begin each day by listing three things you are grateful for. It can be anything from people in your life to the simplest of blessings. This practice helps shift your focus from what you lack to the blessings already in your life, fostering a sense of fulfillment.

2. Simplify and Focus on Needs, Not Wants

Bible Verse: “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.” — 1 Timothy 6:6-7
New Habit: Set a goal to declutter one area of your life, like a room or closet, each week. Letting go of excess helps us see that we don’t need much to be happy. This practice encourages valuing what you truly need rather than constantly seeking more.

3. Release Comparisons

Bible Verse: “Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else.” — Galatians 6:4
New Habit: Limit your time on social media or make it a point to focus on your own progress rather than comparing yourself to others. Reflect each evening on one personal growth area or positive aspect of your life. Comparison often breeds discontentment, while personal reflection fosters appreciation for where you are.

4. Trust God with Your Needs

Bible Verse: “So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ … But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” — Matthew 6:31-33
New Habit: When you feel anxious about your needs, practice surrender by saying a prayer or journaling to release those worries to God. Regularly remind yourself of how God has provided in the past. This practice builds trust and helps reduce the anxiety that can fuel discontent.

5. Celebrate the Successes of Others

Bible Verse: “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” — Romans 12:15
New Habit: Make it a habit to genuinely congratulate others on their successes and blessings. Try to see their achievements as inspiration rather than competition. This practice helps cultivate joy and positivity, reducing feelings of lack and envy.

6. Limit Desires for Material Wealth

Bible Verse: “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'” — Hebrews 13:5
New Habit: Create a budget or set financial boundaries that encourage wise spending and saving. Spend intentionally on things that truly bring you joy and reflect your values. This will help you find satisfaction in what you have rather than constantly seeking more.

7. Focus on Eternal Values

Bible Verse: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” — Matthew 6:19-20
New Habit: Set aside time each week to serve others or volunteer, focusing on ways to invest in the lives of others rather than on personal gain. This practice builds a sense of purpose that goes beyond material success and fosters a sense of contentment through giving and helping.

8. Pray for a Contented Heart

Bible Verse: “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” — Philippians 4:11
New Habit: In your daily prayers, ask God to help you cultivate a contented heart, regardless of your circumstances. Be intentional about seeking peace and strength in God, practicing the idea that true contentment comes from within and from a deep relationship with Him.

These habits can help you reframe your mindset, reduce stress, and grow in gratitude and faith. By developing these practices, you can gradually cultivate a deep sense of contentment, no matter your circumstances.

I hope this helps!!

Check out my new video on contentment. I would appreciate you commenting, liking and subscribing and passing it on. It would really help me to have YouTube move this forward to others who may be struggling.

HOW TO STAY SOBER AND CONTENT AT ANYTIME

Prayers of Blessings to you!

Linda