Contentment vs. Consumerism: Finding Joy in Financial Simplicity

If our consumer culture had a one-word mantra, it would be “more.” With great regularity and in ways both subtle and overt, we are led to believe that we don’t have enough—and even worse, that we are not enough. The culture says we need more (money, stuff, experiences) in order to be more (satisfied, successful, worthy).
If the Bible’s response to all of that could be boiled down to one word, it would be “contentment.”

The Apostle Paul set the standard when he said, “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:12-13). And he was writing from prison! For most people, though, contentment can’t just be switched on. It has to be cultivated with intentional practices. Two of the most beneficial practices are guarding your heart and giving thanks.

A good game of defense

The Bible says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it” (Proverbs 4:23). The most effective consumerist messages are designed to reach us on an emotional level, a heart level. They don’t just give us the facts; they tell us how we’ll feel if we buy this or even who we’ll become. We would be wise to proactively limit our exposure to such messages. Are there people you follow on social media whose seemingly perfect lives leave you feeling like you’re missing out? Stop following them. Are your inboxes filled with promotional messages? Unsubscribe, and then guard your email address and cell phone number. When checking out at a store, it’s common to be asked for such information. But it isn’t needed to process the transaction; the store wants to add you to their marketing list. Politely, just say no.

A good game of offense

Many consumerist messages are designed to foster discontent, to make you feel like you’re missing something. Contented people seem to be Teflon-coated; messages suggesting that they need something more in order to be happy don’t stick. To cultivate contentment, practice gratitude. Social scientists have put gratitude under the microscope, and their findings are impressive. Gratitude enhances not just feelings of contentment but also generally stronger mental health and resilience, increased empathy, and stronger social bonds. The Bible says, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, emphasis added). Always? Continually? In all circumstances? Yes! Give it a try. In the midst of a challenging day, find something to be grateful for. Food on the table. A roof over your head. A beautiful sunset. The intentional practice of gratitude will increase your awareness of life’s many simple gifts.

A whole new level of appreciation

There’s nothing inherently wrong with money and what it can buy. It’s a matter of perspective. Looking to them for your identity, security, or ultimate happiness will leave you perpetually discontented, always thinking that you need something more. On the other hand, seeing them for what they truly are—good gifts from our loving Father—will fill you with gratitude and contentment.

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Matt Bell is the author of Trusted: Preparing Your Kids for a Lifetime of God-Honoring Money Management. He speaks at churches and conferences throughout the country and writes the MattAboutMoney blog.

This article should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. You may wish to consult a tax or financial advisor about your individual financial situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is contentment according to the Bible?
A: Contentment is learning to trust God and remain steady in both need and abundance.

Q: Why does consumer culture challenge contentment?
A: It promotes the message that having more leads to greater happiness, success, and worth.

Q: Why is gratitude important in cultivating contentment?
A: Gratitude redirects focus to what has already been provided rather than what feels lacking.

Q: Are money and possessions wrong?
A: Money and possessions are not wrong; problems arise when they become a source of identity, security, or ultimate satisfaction.