These words show us that contentment is not a natural tendency in humans. “All weeds grow quickly.” Greed, discontentment, and complaining are natural to humans, just as thorns grow in the soil. That is why we do not need to plant thorns and briars—they are already in the ground. Likewise, we do not need to teach people to complain, for they do so quickly and without learning.
However, if we want to harvest wheat, we must plow and plant the land. If we desire flowers, we must find the right garden and provide it with the necessary care. Contentment is one of heaven’s flowers, and if we want it, we must first plant it, for it does not grow naturally within us. Only the new nature can bear its fruit, and even then, we must be vigilant and watch over it carefully to cultivate and preserve the grace that God has planted in us.
Paul says, “I have learned to be content,” indicating that he knew how much suffering it initially cost him to later attain the secret of this great truth. There is no doubt that the time had come when Paul had learned it and never went back on his commitment. When he finally reached this state, he could confidently say, “I have learned to be content in whatever situation I am in.” He was an old man, gray-haired, standing on the edge of the grave, a poor prisoner locked away in Nero’s prison in Rome.
Perhaps we would prefer to endure Paul’s sufferings and share his cold prison if we truly wish to reach his high level of faith. Do not be deceived into thinking that you can learn contentment without discipline and training. It is not a natural ability we can simply practice; rather, it is a knowledge that must be acquired gradually. We learn this through our experiences.
Brother, stop complaining. Even if it is in your nature, persevere as a diligent student in the school of contentment.
