But godliness with contentment [αὐταρκείας] is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 1 Timothy 6:6-8
“Paul also differs from the Cynics and Stoics in the use of αὐταρκείας in his assumption that self-sufficiency does come from one’s own earnest self-discipline. It is a gift of God. Therefore, self-sufficiency is a misnomer, since it is sufficiency that comes from God and not from the self.”
David E. Garland in 2 Corinthians: An Exegetical and Theological Exposition of Holy Scripture (Volume 29) (The New American Commentary) 408.
I have not studied αὐταρκείας as much as brothers like Tim Macready who did his master’s thesis on the term, but today I learned something new and really hope you see it too.
The Cynics and Stoics taught that disciplined stewardship would result in self-sufficiency. For a price, these moral philosophers taught people “how to live.” On the surface, it sounds great. Yet, the fresh connection I made is that modern-day financial advisors proclaim the same message. But it’s not taking hold of life or experiencing godliness with αὐταρκείας. When we follow God’s design to enjoy and share God’s blessings we grasp it.
To put it another way, when our giving at all times and all occasions reveals that we have enough for every good work, we show that God is the source of our sufficiency, not our stockpiling. So, the fresh word is this. Don’t just live simply so you can build wealth. Live simply so you can give generously to show that our all-sufficient God sustains you.
Yesterday in Manila, pictured above, the GTP staff of ten convened for the first time ever and our board members arrive from around the world today for the start of the Global Gathering tomorrow. Pray for a fruitful week of meetings.
And I am praying that every person reading this takes hold of αὐταρκείας and lives as a conduit rather than a container of God’s material and spiritual blessings.