READ: 1 Timothy 6:3-12
“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.” – 1 Timothy 6:6-7
To be able to achieve great heights in ministry and remain content is indeed a great accomplishment. “Godliness with contentment is great gain!”
Our eternal judgment is going to be based on our faithfulness to God. “Well done, good and faithful servant!” These are the words we all want to hear. To be faithful means to be constant. Many are not able to stay faithful because they are charmed by the riches of this world.
To remain faithful is indeed a great achievement. Just as it is difficult for many men to be faithful to one woman, it is difficult for many ministers to be faithful to one God. Most ministers find themselves veering off into the love of money.
Few of us are able to achieve a godly ministry and still be content. If you look around you will find that many “successful” ministries seem to emphasize on money, prosperity and “gain”.
The “great gain” I am talking about is not the worldly gain of millions of dollars. The great gain I am talking about is “godliness with contentment”. Worldly gain is different from spiritual gain. Many are not content with material blessings that they are given by God. They want more and more. Many have shifted from real ministry into vain jangling.
Today, financial sermons replace sermons on Christian character and soul winning. God’s Word is turned into a manual for business, finance and worldly success.
“Great gain” is the achievement of success in ministry with the spirit of contentment. To be happy with what you have financially, as you achieve your spiritual goals is indeed great gain. It is great gain because it is rare.