In today’s world, it’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of material things. We’re constantly told that success is measured by wealth, status, and possessions.
But 1 Timothy 6:5-10 gives us a different perspective—a Biblical perspective—on what true gain looks like.
Paul reminds us that contentment, not riches, is where we find real gain. Let’s look at three key truths from this passage that help us understand the connection between contentment and godliness.
1) True Wealth Isn’t Found in Material Gain
In verse 5, Paul warns us about people who equate financial gain with godliness.
He says, “supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.”
The idea that more money or more possessions make us more godly is a false teaching that leads people away from the truth.
We see it all the time—people chasing after riches, thinking it will make them happy or give them spiritual standing. But in reality, this pursuit brings strife, division, and heartache.
Godliness isn’t measured by what we have, but by who we are in Christ.
It’s not about filling our pockets but filling our hearts with Godly contentment.
Material gain doesn’t draw us closer to the Lord—contentment does.
2) Contentment Comes Through Godliness
Verse 6 gives us the key: “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” True gain isn’t found in things, but in a godly life paired with a content heart.
When we live in a way that pleases God and learn to be content with what He has provided, we experience a satisfaction that money can never buy.
Contentment doesn’t come naturally. It requires us to trust in God’s provision and believe that He knows what we need.
It’s realizing that if we have God, we have everything we need. When we stop chasing the world’s definition of success and start seeking after godliness, we find a peace and joy that can’t be taken away.
3) Simplicity in Life Brings contentment
Paul wraps up this thought in verses 8-9, where he says, “And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare.” The world tells us to want more, to strive for bigger and better. But Paul says that if we have the basics—food and clothing—we should be content.
This doesn’t mean it’s wrong to have nice things or to work hard, but it does mean that our hearts shouldn’t be wrapped up in the desire for more.
The constant craving for wealth and status is a trap that leads to destruction.
Instead, simplicity in life, with our basic needs met, allows us to focus on what really matters: our relationship with God, our families, and our purpose in serving Him.
Contentment is a choice we make when we trust in God’s provision and live a life of godliness.
It’s realizing that true wealth isn’t found in the things of this world but in our relationship with the Lord. When we let go of the world’s pressure to accumulate more and learn to be content with what God has given us, we find the real gain—peace, joy, and satisfaction in Him.
1 Timothy 6:5-10 reminds us that contentment isn’t about having everything we want, but about trusting God to provide everything we need. Let’s choose today to live with godliness and contentment, knowing that in Him, we have more than enough.
