Carry Happiness into 2025, Leave Discontentment Behind 

Ushering in a positive attitude at the start of a new year can set the tone for the best days that lie ahead.

Pastor Allison G. Daniels, a speaker, podcaster, publisher, and successful author of 46 books is known for helping believers calm their fears and tackle their goals with confidence, wisdom and determination. Social media can have a positive or negative impact, depending on its use. Pastor Daniels is an example of someone who routinely uses online platforms to reach and empower others. She recently shared a timely sermon for this time of year. The topic was rooted in dealing with discontentment, which she defined as “a state of dissatisfaction or unhappiness with one’s circumstances, positions, possessions or situation.” 

“It [discontentment] often arises when expectations are unmet, when one’s feelings lack in comparison to others, or when desires for something more or different overshadows gratitude for what is already present,” Pastor Daniels further explained. “The Bible reminds us that true contentment comes not from external achievements or possessions, but from trusting God; trusting in God’s provision and purpose for our lives.”

She referenced Philippians 4:11-13 (KJV) and tied in the message of learning to be content, resting in God, and seeking Him during the times that we feel discouraged.

“I have learned to be content, whatever the circumstance. ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’ This passage encourages us to rely on Christ who strengthens us to endure and to find peace in every situation,” Pastor Daniels stated. 

Pastor Daniels advised those who seek to combat discontentment to practice daily gratitude. Reflect on what it is that God has done in our lives. Meditate on His Word and embrace a heart of thankfulness. Pastor Daniels cautioned us not to focus on minor things that we do not have, but instead acknowledging what we do, from having food on the table, to having breath that God has placed in our lungs, to loved ones being okay.

Pastor Daniels cited some common ways that people experience discontentment, lose peace, or forget to focus on what God called them to do.

1. She stated that discontentment often arises when we compare ourselves to others, whether it’s in terms of possessions, achievements, relationships, or life circumstances that can cause feelings of inadequacy. For example, Pastor Daniels cautioned that social media could cause individuals to get a distorted sense of what is normal and then seek validation because a person did not get enough likes, views, or comments on a social media post. 

2. According to Pastor Daniels, physical appearance is another area that can cause discontentment. She stated that people frequently compare their body image or overall appearance to others, especially to those who meet social standards of beauty. She said that drawing this kind of comparison can contribute to having low self-esteem. 

3. Pastor Daniels mentioned that comparison of careers; success; job titles; achievements; salaries; and peer accomplishments can lead to discontentment if others are seen as more successful than they are in life. She advises people to end comparing themselves to others and focus on what God has called them to do. She reminded that people marry, have children, or reach milestones at different times in their lives. She also advises others to live in the present, enjoy their lives each day, and seek God daily instead of becoming consumed by tomorrow and a timeline of what must be accomplished at a certain time. 

4. Pastor Daniels said that when life does not unfold as planned, or when our desires and our goals remain unfulfilled, discontentment sets in. Overworking and burning ourselves out can leave us feeling like we have not met our expectations, especially when people are perfectionists. She cautioned against neglecting self-care, getting proper nutrition and exercise, and not taking time to relax while pursuing goals. Pastor Daniels emphasized the value of resting, being at peace, and having trust in what God has for us in the future. 

Giving our minds, bodies and spirits attention can help us live happier, more fulfilling lives. Taking action to improve our circumstances while acknowledging the good that is already present can take us far.

Listen to Pastor Daniels’ weekly sermons via https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvZ9RwtK0x7eqG5B18wFs5amBch6uzkcD&si=wWDl50sc1id0JWkR or find her via https://www.facebook.com/allison.g.daniels. Learn more about her publishing services, business endeavors, and books by visiting http://www.allisongdaniels.com.