I Want, Therefore I Am

I have read somewhere the phrase "Happiness is wanting what you have, not having what you want". What a great statement; There is a tonne of want and materialism amongst youth and society, and no more is this prevalent than during the “holiday season of giving”.[1] Though I do not know if it all stems from one place, I know we did not get there innocently. In writing this I consulted a few books to help create an informed answer, but I found the best advice was borne of personal experience, so here is my humble insight on the subject:

First, there is nothing wrong with either having things or simply wanting them in and of themselves. However, pride and envy often creep in and it becomes a sport. If you find that all you can think about is "the next big thing", or what else you can get that your friends do not have, maybe some self-examination is in order:

• What's wrong with what I have?
• What was I like before I had it?
• Why do I want it...

- To compare to those around me?

- Perhaps true happiness is one more purchase away?

- Maybe people will be impressed with what I have?

- 'Retail Therapy' is comforting.

- Possessions = Love

I know many of us struggle with wanting more - and yes, I said 'we': me too - but the fact of the matter is this trend of ‘get’ until we either find ourselves in debt with lots of stuff, or still wanting and unhappy with stuff we have is destroying us from the inside out.

This is a huge deal! I am not a financial expert, but I know this much: Contentedness is more valuable, longer lasting and self-valuing than ‘having’ any day. I believe Paul would leave us with the same encouragement.[2]

Greg Laurie has given these insights:

1. Watch how and what you are storing.
2. Keep your vision clear
3. Don’t worry for material things, (Matthew 6)
4. Put God first in your life [to get the ultimate blessing]

Consumerism never saved anyone. Try appreciating what you have, you will see. Have a Merry Christmas and be content with what we have: A God who loves us enough to be one of us to save us from ourselves.

Agree? Disagree? I'd love to hear from you.

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[1] This is a topic for another article all together – how political correction needs an enema.

[2] Philippians 4: 10-14