Contentment

”And to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody”

1 Thess 4:11-12 (NIV)

In a world where social media is in the thick middle of society (and even tweens are becoming millionaires from their YouTube channels), perhaps we have lost the art and beauty of a “quiet life” and “minding our own business.” It seems every conversation, every life event, every success or failure – it’s all just “content” now.

So I remind myself of this verse often. My life’s goal is not to be famous, make a splash, garner praise, and have a big following. Sure, I want to leave a legacy and have an impact on those within my reach, but it’s not to be measured by likes and follows. It’s to leave each life a little better than I found it – a little closer to God (NOT a little more in awe of myself).

I love the word “ambition” in this verse contrasted with “quiet life.” Usually, we think someone who flies under the radar is the opposite of ambitious, but what if they actively pursue this anonymous life? What if quiet strength WAS their ambition, and daily life of hard work that could win respect was their goal? May it be more and more true of me with every day I live!

Tricia McCorkle is a Contributor for Humble Faith Ministries, Jesus follower, Southern California wife and mom of three who loves writing, teaching math, singing in choir, and making cakes. Tricia has a passion for all people to know God's love and feel included in circles of faith.