Are you struggling with some type of dissatisfaction, such as envy, complaining, or greed? We have outlined a five-step process to help you change and heal in this area of your life. Take all the time you need with each of the steps in this article.
Step 1: Adopt a Correct View of God
Flaws in your view of God can easily produce dissatisfaction in your life. For example, you may have made the mistake of looking to God as your own personal genie who should grant your every wish. On the other hand, you may see Him as some miserly old hermit who would not give a bone to a dog. Either viewpoint would greatly affect your ability to be content and satisfied.
- God is sovereign, and He is in control of your life.
With my great strength and powerful arm I made the earth and all its people and every animal. I can give these things of Mine to anyone I choose. (Jeremiah 27:5)
- God is faithful. He will always do what is best for us.
So the LORD must wait for you to come to Him so He can show you His love and compassion. For the LORD is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for His help. (Isaiah 30:18)
Through searching the Scriptures, learn more about God as Sovereign Lord. As you do so, consider how flaws in your view of God might be at the root of your problem of dissatisfaction. Ask God to help you understand Him as He really is.
Step 2: Revise Your False Beliefs
The belief that we deserve everything we want and more does not line up with God’s Holy Word. The belief that happiness comes with possessions or position is in direct opposition to God’s truth. Such examples of false beliefs about people and life can fuel dissatisfaction. Ask yourself the following questions:
- Do you believe you would be happy if you had more money?
Don’t love money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, “I will never fail you. I will never abandon you.” (Hebrews 13:5)
- Do you believe you would be happy if you looked different?
Don’t be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God. (1 Peter 3:3–4)
- Do you believe you would be happy if you had a better job?
Each of you should continue to live in whatever situation the Lord has placed you, and remain as you were when God first called you. (1 Corinthians 7:17)
These questions reveal false beliefs that breed discontentment. Other such false beliefs are possible. Spend time searching the Word for its perspective on contentment. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you where your thinking has fallen off track and then to accept the truth.