Recently in Pasco, Florida three men were hospitalized when their attempt to steal honey from a bee hive went horribly wrong.  Neighbors of the bee keeper reported hearing screams for help and seeing the three men rolling on the ground covered in bees.  Local firefighters were called out to rescue the men, who each received about fifty bee stings each for their folly.

     Whatever these men thought that they could gain in grabbing some free honey went by the wayside, as they found themselves stung instead.  Stories like these can often bring a wry smile to our faces, but let us consider what is at the heart of the matter.  The real issue is with trying to find easy gain that we have not worked for or earned.  This shows an attitude of discontent for what we already have been blessed with.

     The pages of scripture are rich in admonitions for us to be content with what we have.  Paul wrote, “I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need” (Philippians 4:11b-12 NKJV).  Later, in writing to Timothy he would say, “Now godliness with contentment is great gain.  For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.  And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content” (1 Timothy 6:6-8).

     Paul would go on to instruct Timothy that those who desire to be rich fall into a destructive pattern and pierce themselves with many sorrows.  Those three men who were pierced by bee stings would certainly say that this is correct!  Jesus said that if we would first seek His kingdom and His righteousness, that we would have all of the needs of our daily lives taken care of by Him (Matthew 6:33).  Let us learn to be content with what we have, and to seek Him first and foremost in our lives!