Say: Find something on your person that brings you a sense of contentment. For example, maybe you’re wearing a piece of jewelry that was given to you by someone you love deeply, or maybe you’re carrying a quotation in your purse that inspires you. Share thoughts about the item you found with your partner or with the others in your trio.

Allow a few minutes for sharing in groups, then say: Next, find something in your pocket or purse, or even in the room, that symbolizes a way that we look for contentment inappropriately. For example, a dollar bill might symbolize looking for contentment in wealth. Share the items you’ve found with the others in your small group.

After several minutes, call the entire group back together and hear back about what a few shared. Then discuss together:

• What is contentment?

• Why do we long for contentment, and why is it so elusive?

• When have you experienced true contentment?

• Is it ever good to be discontented? Why or why not?

• What does our discontentment say about or relationship with God or our understanding of God? Do you think we can remain discontented if we nurture our connection with God? Explain.

You may want to read Philippians 4:11-13, 1 Timothy 6:6-10, and Proverbs 19:23 as a part of this discussion.