Capturing Contentment
Joe Barnett

Benjamin Franklin said: "Content makes poor men rich; discontent makes rich men poor." Inspiration urges: "be content with such things as ye have" (Hebrews 13:5). That's a rough recommendation! How do we translate this advice into action? Try these guidelines.

1. Don't over-estimate material possessions! Many conclude that material abundance is the abundant life. That's a false conclusion. Jesus said: "A man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth" (Luke 12:15). Our affluent age is prime proof of this truth. Perhaps no place in the world can claim more combined wealth than Beverly Hills, California. Has prosperity provided contentment for its residents? Well, Beverly Hills claims 193 psychiatrists. That's one for every 170 citizens!

2. Don't fret over what you DON'T have! One day Ahab pouted into his palace. Flinging himself across his bed, he turned his face to the wall and refused to eat. What was wrong? He wanted to buy a certain vineyard and the owner wouldn't sell. Ahab was a wealthy man! But, all he could think about was this vineyard he didn't have. Many are content with their property until they focus envious eyes on a choice possession of another. A child is happy with his bicycle until the neighbor kid pedals by on his new "ten-speed Stingray." An adult is satisfied with his Ford until an acquaintance motors by in a shiny new Lincoln. Some can't go window-shopping without returning home miserable. They see so many things they can't have. So, they allow their disposition to be ruled by self-pity and discontent.

3. Don't overlook what you DO have! Contrast what you are with what you might have been, but for the grace of God. Stop looking at the things you don't have long enough to focus on the things you do have! Do you have a regular job, reasonable health, a loving family, plenty to eat, and sufficient clothing? The majority of earth's citizens can't claim such an impressive inventory!

Ponder these points until you can sing with Paul: "I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content" (Philippians 4:11). ❦

September Calendars

The September issue of the Activities Calendar and Men To Serve List is available today in the foyer. Pick-up a copy and be informed.

 Ladies’ Work Group
The ladies’ Work Group is scheduled to meet tomorrow night (Monday) at 7pm in the annex. All of our ladies are invited to attend and participate.

FSOP Extension Class
The fall term of the FSOP extension class taught here at Orange Street on Thursday evenings has begun. This term the course is “Hebrews and Galatians” It is still not too late to enroll. See Bob Bauer.

Baby Shower Gifts
Ladies...don’t forget the box for baby shower gifts for Roseleine Monfiston in Assembly Room “B” until Wednesday.

Fellowship Tonight!
All are invited to meet with us in the annex this evening after the PM worship services for a time of food and fellowship. This will be the first fellowship held in the annex since it has been enlarged and will honor the birthdays and anniversaries for the months of July and August.

Add to Your Directory
Sister Sherry Hobbs new address is:

 HOBBS, Sherry. . . . . . . . . . . . . .***-****
  ********* ******** ******
  Winter Haven, FL ****

The address to send cards and letters of encouragement to Derek Howard is:

HOWARD, Derek G. 
***** ************* *********
***************
*******,** ******

So much is dependent – not on how the day looks at us – but how we look at the day. Some people miss seeing the roses behind a broken fence, but their beauty remains just the same. Every day has its problems but faith can turn them into blessings.              

UPCOMING AREA EVENTS:

      • Starts September 2
      “Fishers of Men” Class at Orange Street
      11 wks. - Monday Nights - 7-9:30   

      • Sept 29 - Oct 2 - Gospel Meeting
      Orange Street church of Christ
      Guest Speaker - Jimmy Clark
      Start Making Plans Now