Genesis 36-38, John 15
What happens when we aren't content with where we are in life? We tend to sin and/or take life into our own hands. That is precisely the points that are made throughout our readings today.
God continues to prove His faithfulness to the line of Abraham as we read about Jacob and Joseph. The descendants that are now in Abraham's line are quite numerous, and we can see the great things that God is doing through them, despite the mess ups that keep happening. Jealousy rages in Joseph's older brothers as he is favored in his father's eyes. Discontent in this, they plot to kill him and he ends up being sold into slavery. Reuben, who wanted to prevent his own feelings of guilt, sees that his plan to save Joseph falls through, and the first thing he asks is "what about my reputation?" (vs. 30) Later, we'll see how God works through Joseph's situation, but for now, we can see how discontentment and jealousy can surely raise sin in our lives.
As we move into Judah's story, we definitely see a matter of demanding of one's way, as Judah's son, refuses to have a child who won't be his own heir. As custom would have it, these brothers didn't want to honor their older, deceased brother in giving him an heir. Tamar becomes discontent. Judah becomes discontent, and they end up having a child together through their individual discontentment. Judah, failing to keep his promise to Tamar, and Tamar taking matters into her own hands raises more drama. But Judah, steps up and takes responsibility for his actions, knowing full well the position Tamar was in.
In John, we are told to abide in Christ, for He is our True Vine. This ties in with contentment. Being content in Christ is abiding in Him, and abiding in Him means joy forever. We are warned that this world will hate us for our faith, but Jesus encourages us to abide and remain strong in His Father, as He will send us an advocate. When we find our contentment in Christ, we will be full and can be fruitful for Him. When we worry about being content in other ways, we try to be fruitful for ourselves, rather than for Him.
What is making you discontent at the moment? Remember to have faith that God has a plan, because acting on your own can lead to more chaos and sin. Are you jealous of someone else, wishing you could have what they have? How about you look at what you have, and what you are and be fully content today, remembering that abiding in Christ will lead you to joy. Don't let this world sway you any other way. Remember what you are here for and the work He is doing in and through you!
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