Each generation raises the contentment bar, it seems. With every new technological advance, we seem to need more and more things to be satisfied. My parents' generation knew nothing of a family having more than one car, but my generation grew up expecting to have one at their disposal. When I was growing up, we didn't even have computers, but I hear young people today complaining because the one they have isn't the latest model.

The standards for true contentment, though, know no calendar. The 21st century will bring all kinds of marvels to our world, but it won't bring a better definition for contentment than the 2,000-year-old words of the apostle Paul. He said, "I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content . . . . Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry . . . . I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:11-13).

The secret of contentment is found in Christ—not in man's inventions, creature comforts, techno-toys, wealth, or amusement. It's accepting what God has given us, and by His strength making the most of it. As 19th-century author Maltbie Babcock said, "Contentment . . . is the grateful, faithful, fruitful use of what we have, little or much."    — Dave Branon