There’s a Hemphills song1 that I love. It begins in the first verse with these words: “I guess we should pity the man in this world, who must use the earth for a bit. And I guess we should pity the man who must toil, from dawn to dusk for his bread. But these can be rich if they have contentment, and share in God’s salvation plan.” It opens by prompting us to reflect on what is truly valuable in life, contrasting the daily toil of those who strive for material gain with the deeper riches found in contentment and God’s salvation plan.
The song says that though we may pity those who labor from dawn to dusk for their bread, the real tragedy lies with those who, despite having everything the world offers, lack the one thing that truly matters—salvation. Jesus asks the sobering question, “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” (Matthew 16:26). This question underscores the futility of a life focused solely on accumulating earthly wealth while neglecting spiritual riches. True wealth, the song reminds us, comes not from what we hold in our hands, but from the contentment and eternal life that only God can give. I can’t agree any less.
There’s a hope that Christianity offers—eternal life, a gift that the world cannot give. It’s the ultimate reason to follow Christ, as beautifully expressed in Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” This promise assures us that, despite the brokenness of this world, we have a future in Christ. As Ellen G. White reminds us, “Christ was treated as we deserve, that we might be treated as He deserves.” Beyond this, I’ve come to understand that earthly wealth and success are fleeting.
Christ was treated as we deserve, that we might be treated as He deserves. – Ellen G. White, The Desire of Ages.
The words of Jesus in Matthew 6:19-20, urging us to store up treasures in heaven where they will last forever, invite us to prioritize spiritual riches over material ones. Jim Elliot’s profound statement sums it up: “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” This is the foundation upon which our faith, as Christians, is built—one that looks beyond the temporary and embraces the eternal.
So, what are some other benefits of being a Christian?
The Benefits of Being a Christian
- Peace Beyond Understanding
One of the greatest benefits of being a Christian is experiencing a peace that goes beyond human understanding. In a world filled with anxiety, uncertainty, and turmoil, the peace that comes from knowing Christ transcends our circumstances. It is not dependent on external situations but rather rooted in a deep trust in God. As Philippians 4:7 says, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” This peace is a constant reassurance, guarding us from fear and worry, and offering calmness even in the most challenging times.
- Contentment in All Circumstances
Another profound benefit of being a Christian is the contentment that comes with knowing God, regardless of wealth or status. True contentment, as highlighted in the song, is a hallmark of the Christian faith. It provides deep satisfaction that surpasses worldly achievements or material possessions. The Bible reinforces this in 1 Timothy 6:6: “Now godliness with contentment is great gain.” Ellen G. White also emphasized the beauty of living a content and simple life, stating that “true happiness is found, not in the indulgence of pride and luxury, but in communion with God through His created works.” This contentment allows Christians to find peace and fulfillment in all circumstances, grounded in their relationship with God.
True happiness is found, not in the indulgence of pride and luxury, but in communion with God through His created works. – Ellen G. White, The Ministry of Healing.
- A Higher Purpose and Mission
Another significant benefit of being a Christian is the higher purpose and mission it provides. Christianity offers a calling that goes beyond accumulating wealth or achieving status; it is about living a life of service and love, reflecting Christ’s love to others. As Ephesians 2:10 reminds us, “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” This verse highlights that we are created with a divine purpose—to do good works and make a positive impact on the world. In embracing this mission, we find fulfillment, knowing that our lives have eternal significance as we serve God and others.
- Christianity Isn’t Missing Life’s Best
- True Freedom in Christ
Many people outside the faith may view Christianity as restrictive, thinking it limits life’s pleasures, but in reality, it offers true freedom—freedom from sin, guilt, and the overwhelming pressures of this world. Far from being a life of constraint, Christianity sets us free to live fully and purposefully in God’s grace. As Jesus said in John 8:36, “Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.” Ellen G. White echoes this truth, stating that “true liberty is found only in obedience to the law of God.” Rather than missing out on life’s best, Christians experience a deeper sense of freedom and fulfillment that only comes through living in Christ.
True liberty is found only in obedience to the law of God. – Ellen G. White, Steps to Christ.
- The Joy of Giving
While the world often celebrates accumulating wealth and possessions, Christianity teaches the profound joy of giving and living selflessly. Contrary to the belief that joy comes from getting, the Christian faith reveals that true fulfillment is found in giving to others. As Acts 20:35 reminds us, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” This principle of selflessness brings a deeper sense of satisfaction and purpose that far surpasses material gain. By living generously and serving others, we Christians discover a richer and more meaningful life, proving that we aren’t missing out on life’s best, but embracing it fully through the joy of giving.
Conclusion
Christianity offers the hope of eternal life, true freedom, and a higher purpose. The peace, contentment, and joy that come from following Christ are far greater than anything the world can offer. As the apostle Paul declared in Philippians 1:21, “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” This sums up the Christian experience—living for Christ brings fulfillment in this life and the promise of eternal joy in the next. I encourage you to reflect on where you are storing your treasures. Are they in the fleeting things of this world, or are they in heaven, where they will last forever? Christ offers a life of eternal value, and I invite you to consider embracing that life today.
