satisfaction

What does it take for you to feel a sense of accomplishment? What does it take to make that feeling last?

We're so geared to check things off our list and move on, aren't we? There's no such thing as "resting on our laurels." There's no glory in savoring the moment. If you take a break to relish a personal victory, you're not to be taken seriously. Put out a Number 1 hit, and the critics are already anticipating your next CD. Write a bestseller, and the hum begins about the next book. Get the corner office and most people think you should get ready to set your sights on something better.

Not that I'm familiar with these accomplishments, but I've seen the trend in my life as well. Get married and friends and family will ask you "So, when are you going to have a baby?" Have a baby and people are already asking "So, when are you going to have another baby?"

Is it possible to be satisfied with your situation when every indication is that the world is passing you by? I think so. When satisfaction is no longer a byproduct of how well we're keeping up with the rest of the world. When we look at what we're doing and seek to do it the best we can instead of moving on to something else. When we really appreciate where we are, what we've done, and who we're with.

The Old Testament story of King Solomon shows a man who is both grateful for and content in his circumstances, not eager to move onto something else, but to do the best he can in his situation. He is described in 2 Chronicles as "established...firmly over his kingdom, for the Lord his God was with him and made him exceedingly great." Solomon has the respect of commanders and heads of families alike and he rules over "a people who are as numerous as the dust of the earth."

So what does he ask for? More territory? Another exciting assignment? More money?

Not at all. Solomon's only request is that God gives him the smarts to do what he's already doing.

"Now, Lord God, let your promise to my father David be confirmed, for you have made me king over a people who are as numerous as the dust of the earth. Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this people, for who is able to govern this great people of yours?" 2 Chronicles 1:9-10.

It might be considered countercultural to refrain from looking to the next event, project, accomplishment, milestone, whatever. I'm asking you to fight against a pretty strong current, but wouldn't it be nice to find satisfaction--however momentary--in where God has placed us?

The chorus of Linkin Park's A Place for My Head echo this simple wish for the weary:

I'm sick of the tension, sick of the hunger
Sick of you acting like I owe you this
Find another place to feed your greed
While I find a place to rest.