In Hebrews 13:5 we are exhorted to “be content with such things as ye have.” The Greek word translated as “content” literally means “to ward off.” What does warding off have to do with being content? The answer is that being content is one of the best ways to ward off the wiles of the devil. When we are content the enemy cannot entice us with anything. When we go through trials or are tempted by the enemy, we must remember to be content with the things that we have. So what do we have? Here is a list of some of things we have (I’m sure you can think of many others):
- This treasure in earthen vessels (2 Corinthians 4:7)
- All things that pertain unto life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3)
- Exceeding great and precious promises (2 Peter 1:4)
- Jesus, a high priest who is touched by the feeling of our infirmities (Hebrews 4:15)
- Received the spirit of adoption (Romans 8:15)
- The Lord’s mercies (Lamentations 3:22-23)
The next time the enemy attacks, we can ward him off by being thankful for the things that we have and praising God for His loving kindness and tender mercies.
