1 Timothy 6:6

Godliness. Literally, “the godliness,” that is, the true “godliness,” which rightly represents Christian principles and satisfies the deepest yearnings of the heart (see on chs. 2:2; 3:16; 4:7, 8; 6:3).

Contentment. Paul here defines the most priceless possession man can own. Men and women have searched the world for peace of mind and an untroubled heart. Billions of dollars are being spent annually as man endeavors to find contentment in amusement, travel, liquor, and the satisfaction of physical passion. Yet, the object of their quest eludes them because man must still live with his conscience and face the question of his eternal destiny. However, the gift of God is not only eternal life; it also brings an untroubled mind, one that has learned to trust a loving God amid all the uncertainties of life. When friends or strangers misunderstand him, when infirmities begin to sap the strength of youth, when loved ones slip away in death, then the Christian finds in his holy religion a peace of mind that gives him contentment, courage, and hope. The fleeting glory of earth is not his master; he knows of a better land and a more dependable Master. With God as his only helper, the Christian needs nothing more. Calm and assured, he presents a welcome contrast to the harried, nervous, unsatisfied throngs in the world around him (see on Matt. 11:28–30; Phil. 4:11, 12).

Gain. Such untroubled confidence in the leadership of God is worth far more than the temporary grasp a man may have on material possessions. The world’s list of suicides includes many men and women who were rich in worldly possessions but poor in heavenly “contentment.”