The number one lesson I learned in 2009 was contentment. 

It's easy as Americans to be caught up in the "I deserve better" complex. How did we get to that point? Regardless, it's a sad way to live--always wishing for more, expecting more, demanding more. For too long, I moved with the crowd and found myself victim to my own complaining...whether it was about my house, my job, or my treatment...until God transformed my attitude and showed me the joys of contentment.

Contentment is loving life and living love.

Loving life--The Bible says our lives are mere vapors. Why waste any moments on whining? Why compare meager details of living conditions when there's so much LIFE to be lived? Why look distastefully on our God-given provisions when He obviously cares for us? How many of us really love our lives? It's a daily choice--even a minute-by-minute choice. Those who love life as they should will demonstrate true JOY.

Living love--The Bible says that love is greater than faith and hope. Compassion is our ministry to others. Charity is our overflow of joy. Love is our mission. Through this one amazing attribute, we can reach others with the extended arms of Christ. Through a life of giving, we spread contentment...and we spread the message of Jesus.

But contentment is not the completion of a Christian's journey. It is the beginning of joy and influence. May we all choose to kill complaints and resurrect attitudes of appreciation.