Resisting the Temptation of Just a Little More: Finding Contentment in God

Just a Little More

Have you ever felt the temptation to have just a little more? That familiar voice whispering in your ear, urging you to indulge in something beyond what is necessary or healthy? I call this voice "Just a Little More," and he has been a longtime friend of mine.

Unable to Resist

Just a Little More knows our weaknesses and exploits them. He knows that after a satisfying meal, he can convince us to have just a little more dessert. He knows that in the morning, when we should be getting up and starting our day, he can persuade us to hit the snooze button and enjoy just a little more sleep. And he knows that in our relationships, he can tempt us to cross boundaries and seek just a little more intimacy.

A Familiar Presence

Just a Little More is always there, lurking in the background, ready to pounce when we least expect it. He takes a seat next to us after dinner, pointing at our empty plates and asking, "How about just a little more?" He rests on the edge of our beds in the morning, tucking the sheets under our chins and assuring us, "Just a little more sleep won't hurt." He follows behind us as we walk with our loved ones, whispering, "Just a little more won't harm our relationship."

The Deceptive Nature

Just a Little More presents himself as a kind and generous friend, promising us greater pleasure and satisfaction. However, his promises are deceptive, leading us down a path of excess and dissatisfaction. We may think that just a little more chocolate, wine, or leisure time won't hurt, but in reality, it can lead to overindulgence and negative consequences.

The Wisdom of the Bible

As we navigate the challenges of resisting Just a Little More, we can find wisdom and guidance in the Bible. The Scriptures remind us of the importance of self-control and contentment. In the book of Proverbs, we are encouraged to be satisfied with what we have and not to chase after wealth or material possessions:

"Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil." - Proverbs 15:16 (NIV)

This verse reminds us that true satisfaction and peace come from a relationship with God, not from accumulating more and more. It encourages us to find contentment in what we have and to prioritize our spiritual well-being over material gain.

Another passage that addresses the allure of Just a Little More is found in the New Testament, in the book of 1 Timothy:

"But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that." - 1 Timothy 6:6-8 (NIV)

These verses remind us that true gain and contentment come from pursuing godliness, not from accumulating material possessions or seeking excessive pleasure. They encourage us to focus on the essentials and be grateful for the basic necessities of life.

The Joy of Contentment

Resisting Just a Little More may seem challenging, but the reward is worth it. When we learn to be content with what we have and find satisfaction in God alone, we experience true joy and freedom. We are no longer enslaved by our desires, constantly seeking more and more to fill an endless void.

By embracing contentment, we can live a life of gratitude and simplicity. We can appreciate the blessings we already have and use them to bless others. We can find fulfillment in serving and loving those around us, rather than constantly chasing after the next temporary pleasure.

Conclusion

In a world that constantly encourages us to pursue more and indulge in excess, it is important to recognize the deceptive voice of Just a Little More. We must resist his temptations and seek contentment in God and His Word. Let us remember the wisdom of the Bible and find joy in living a life that is satisfied with what we have, rather than always longing for just a little more.