It is mercy that he is out of Hell!

(Thomas Watson, "The Art of Divine Contentment")

"I know what it is to be in need — and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation — whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in need." Philippians 4:12

The humble man is the contented man; if his estate is low, his heart is lower than his estate, therefore he is content. If his esteem in the world is low — he who is little in his own eyes will not be much troubled to be little in the eyes of others. He has a lower opinion of himself, than others can have of him.

The humble man studies his own unworthiness. He cries out with Paul, that he is the chief of sinners, therefore does not murmur — but admire. 

A little will content him! He does not complain that his comforts are small. He thinks it is mercy that he is out of Hell, therefore he is contented. He knows that the worst piece which God carves out for him here on earth — is better than he deserves.

A proud man is never contented — he has a high opinion of himself. Therefore under small blessings, he is disdainful; and under small crosses, he is impatient.

The humble man is the contented man; if his cross is light — he reckons it the inventory of his mercies; if his cross is heavy — yet he takes it up in humble submission. Where humility is laid for the foundation, contentment will be the superstructure.