Thomas Watson

The Art of Divine Contentment: an Exposition of Philippians 4:11 Thomas Watson

Watson, one of the most understandable and practical of the Puritans, gives us a much needed remedy for the discontent that is rampant in our society today, even among Christians. He gives a warm and God-centered view of how contentment as a Christian is not only possible, but should be normal. His thesis is: "That a gracious spirit is a contented spirit. The doctrine of contentment is very superlative; and til we have learned this, we have not learned to be Christians." He rightly focuses the source of contentment on God's promises and His sovereign keeping of them. "There is one promise brings much sweet contentment into the soul, 'They that seek the Lord shall not want any good thing,' Ps. 34:10. If the thing we desire be good for us, we shall have it; if it be not good, then the not having it is good for us. The resting satisfied with this promise gives contentment." All Christians can benefit from this kind of work, that we might be different, and not live in the same discontent that we see all around us. If you're looking for a treatment for your heart, Watson is a fine physician of the soul.