In a world where more is never enough, we often find ourselves chasing an endless cycle of accumulation. More cars. More houses. More money. Even in the church, we are not exempt. The culture around us celebrates materialism, success defined by what we have or how much we earn, rather than who we are or how we serve.

But while we gain more things, climb social ladders, and collect accolades, we must pause and ask: are we truly content?

What Does It Mean to Be Content?

Contentment is not apathy. It’s not about giving up dreams or settling for less. Rather, contentment is a state of satisfaction and peace, independent of what we own or how life looks externally.

Some people have vacation homes, multiple cars, and high-paying jobs and yet, we constantly want more. We say, “Once I get this, I’ll be satisfied,” but when they get it, we’re already onto the next thing. Others want what you have, not because they need it, but because we lack fulfillment. This is not ambition, it’s discontentment.

The Bible describes contentment as something deeper. In Philippians 4:11-13, Paul writes:

“I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty… I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.”

Paul’s contentment wasn’t tied to his bank account or comfort, it came from knowing Christ. Unfortunately, we often take “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” and apply it to hustle culture and overworking, when in fact, Paul was speaking about the peace that comes from spiritual alignment, not material accumulation.

What Contentment is: When Wanting More Is Good

Let’s be clear, not all desire for more is bad. When I decided to pursue a PhD, some people thought I was being greedy. I already had a master’s degree and a good job. But my desire wasn’t rooted in selfishness, it was about growth and development. I love to grow. Growth of the mind, spirit, and purpose.

As the Bible reminds us: “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” (Jeremiah 17:9). Two people can do the same thing, but have completely different motives. That’s why intention matters.

It’s not wrong to ask God for more—more wisdom, more knowledge, more understanding. But we must ask ourselves: why do we want it?

Why do we do what we do?

Is it just for ourselves?

What Contentment is not: When Wanting More Turns into Greed

Greed often hides in plain sight. A person can work in a job for decades, piling up money and accolades, yet never give back, never teach, never share their wisdom. And no one bats an eye.

Are we robbing the Kingdom of God?

We appease ourselves by giving a tenth of our earnings while we sit back and criticize what is being done. But Jesus says “So give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.”

What gifts, talents, and abilities did God give to us? Matthew 22:21

Meanwhile, young people are hungry for opportunity but face closed doors. In Jamaica, there’s a saying: “The devil finds work for idle hands.” When youth are unemployed, undereducated, or undervalued, they become vulnerable to crime, violence, and exploitation. The same is true globally, especially in our digital age where technology can be a tool or a trap.

What if we are the ones called to stop this?

So, What Can We Do?

Those who know, teach. Those who have, give.

Look around. What needs are present in our community? What resources, knowledge, or experience can we offer?

Many of us don’t even realize what we carry. We have gifts, skills, talents, and life experiences that others desperately need. Whether it’s mentoring youth, starting a small community initiative, or simply using our voice to uplift, we have something to give.

Let’s not settle for jobs or lives that drain us just to survive. There is work—purposeful work—that aligns with who we are. Jobs that nourish us and allow us to serve others at the same time.

Could this be the abundant life Jesus promised?

Choose Purpose Over Possessions, Contentment Over Greed

Breaking the curse of greed and selfishness starts with a shift in mindset. It’s choosing purpose over possessions. Service over status. Contentment over competition.

We are not called to hoard we’re called to pour out. To love more. To give more. While we practice self-care. And in doing so, we find the peace and joy that more houses, car, or more titles can ever give.

Let’s live with open hands and generous hearts. Let’s grow not just for ourselves, but for the next generation.

Because a life of purpose will always be more fulfilling than a life of accumulation.

With love and growth,

Sanchia and team.