Be Content

Hebrews 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

Context: Hebrews 13:1 Let brotherly love continue. v.2 Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers…v.3 Remember those who are in prison… v.4 Let marriage be held in honor among all…v.6 So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?

From the lexicon: Conversation=character, way (of behavior). Without covetousness= not greedy of filthy lucre, without love of money.  Content=be sufficient.  Leave= send back.   Forsake= to leave behind.

Pulling it together: Hebrews 13:5 is set in the context of instructions on living in respect of other believers. Our attitude ought to be one of love as to brethren. We are encouraged to show hospitality to strangers (coming in the name of Christ), not to neglect those undergoing extreme hardship (ex. in prison for the sake of the Gospel), and to honor our marriage commitments. Such conduct is worthy in and out of church.

Verse 5 continues the thought. Conduct your lives without being wrapped up in the pursuit of money but rather be content with what you have (what God has given you) for God has promised to be with you and to never forsake you. Indeed, this is a promise for us in today’s world when we get sidetracked by the values of the world to neglect our relationship with fellow believers, break marital commitments and be consumed in making money. Be content, the writer says, in other words trust God for what He provides and remember His presence. By so living, we can say with confidence, The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?

 Lord, I pray for grace to trust You for what You provide for me and for Your presence.