Godliness is often translated piety, reverence, or likeness to God. It describes true holiness, spirituality, or virtue. The word contentment means “an inner or self-sufficiency.” It was often used to describe a person who is at peace inwardly, not moved by outward circumstances, a person who properly reacts to his or her environment. When we combine these two words, godliness with contentment, we learn that godliness and contentment are to be evident in our lives as followers of Jesus Christ. I am to have a lifestyle that consistently reflects the character of God. Paul goes on to lay out four truths that help us live contented Christian lives that would consistently reflect the character of God.

First, we learn that contentment does not come by things or by wealth. Contentment comes by a godly life that trusts and depends upon God in every circumstance (1 Tim. 6:6; cf. 2 Cor. 3:5; Phil. 4:11).

Second, material things do not last, they are temporary. We brought nothing into the world and we will take nothing material with us (1 Tim. 6:7; cf. Job 1:21; Ps. 49:17; Eccl. 5:15).

Thirdly, the Lord faithfully meets our basic needs, “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on” (1 Tim. 6:8; Mt. 6:25).

Fourthly, in verses 9 and 10, Paul uses the word desire, which has the thought of “wanting at any cost” or “to have a fixed determination.” A desire to be rich can lead to sin in my life. Paul exhorts us that this desire could be a snare that leads to harmful lusts or cravings, which leads to much sorrow. In contrast, Paul challenges Timothy and us in verse 11 with the right desires and cravings that ought to mark one who follows Christ. May it be so!