Life is challenging. There are demands on our time and attention. We have hopes, dreams, and goals. Sometimes day-to-day life can feel overwhelming. I know, truly.
In light of that, there are ways to be content and live a peaceful existence. I've put together 12 keys to contentment. I'm sure there are more and perhaps in time, I'll grow the list.
The past can't be changed. There are memories and situations from our past that can trap us in a downward spiral of despair or guilt. Forgive yourself or others and move forward. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! Cling to that truth.
Others' opinions don't define you. Everyone has an opinion. Some are stupid. Don't let an outsider get inside your head. Proverbs 29 tells us, Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the Lord means safety.
Your worth comes from God. Life is better when you view yourself through His lens of love, forgiveness, and worthiness. For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:10
Trust God during hardships. Pray, don't worry. Listen to the Holy Spirit. In Proverbs, the Bible tells us to Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.
Everyone's journey is different. Comparison is the thief of joy/contentment. There is often more than one path to the success you're looking for. Stay on the path that the Lord your God has commanded you to follow. Then you will live long and prosperous lives in the land you are about to enter and occupy. Deuteronomy 5:33
Overthinking can lead to dissatisfaction. Don't go down a rabbit trail. Stick to facts and what you can do, not what you worry about. So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today. Matthew 6:24
Your thoughts affect your mood. If you start thinking dark thoughts, you'll pull yourself down. That's why the Bible tells us: keep your minds thinking about whatever is true, whatever is respected, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever can be loved, and whatever is well thought of. If there is anything good and worth giving thanks for, think about these things. Philippians 4:8
Kindness is always appropriate. This is a biggie. I very much appreciate any kindness shown to me because one of my life lessons is that even those who you expect to be kind and loving can be cruel, so appreciate kindness and extend kindness to others. You must be kind to each other. Think of the other person. Ephesians 4:32.
Humility is a sign of maturity. No one likes to spend time around a proud, boastful, self-promoter. Humble people consider others first. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up in honor. James 4:10
If someone writes you off, don't write back. Don't do it. I know you may ache to set the record straight, but they aren't worth your energy. Besides, they have chosen their position and probably don't care about anything you have to say. Forgive and forget them. Love your enemies! Do good to those who hate you. Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you. Luke 6:27-28
Mistakes are a part of life. Move on. We all make mistakes, it's one way to learn. If you've done something that requires an apology, apologize. If you've done something hurtful to yourself, learn from it and don't repeat that mistake. Don't harangue yourself, be forgiving, gain hard-won wisdom, and move forward. Again, in Isaiah 43, the Bible says, Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.
Be thankful/grateful for what you have. There really is something to counting your blessings. Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Philippians 4:4
So don't think I'm on my high horse, giving you advice. Often my topics are exactly what I need to hear. If you're up against a challenge, hang it there.