[Greek] ἀρκετός (arketos), [Latin] contentus, [Latin] satisfactere, [Latin] satietas, [Latin] sufficiens: sufficient, enough, satisfaction; Mt.6:34, Mt.10:25, 1Pet.4:3
Background information:
Greek Hellenism: This term means sufficient or enough. This notion pertains to being content to what one has been given by fate or God. This is sometimes called providence. In addition, this can be a warning against being secure or complacent in the illusion of sufficiency. This term can take on an external and internal (psychological context). Epictetus’ Discourse 1.6 states “ For every even that happen sin the world it is easy to give thanks to Providence, if a person has a habit of closely considering what happens to each individual and a grateful temper.” Epictetus’ Discourse 1.16 states “Great is God, who has given us such implements with which we shall cultivate the earth.”
New Testament: This term means sufficient or enough. Jesus instructs us not to worry about tomorrow (of course easier said than done). This will take care of itself. Jesus calls us to have trust and not let our fears and worries overwhelm us. It is sufficient for the disciple to become like his teacher in imitating virtue. Peter mentions that with sufficient time, Gentiles may resort to sinful behavior.
Scripture:
“Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself. Sufficient for a day is its own evil.” Mt.6:34
Jesus call for us to not worry and have trust. He cautions not to let fears and worries overwhelm us.
Conclusion:
Sufficient, satisfy, satisfaction, content, satiety
Stoicism is a Hellenistic philosophy of personal ethics. The path to happiness (blessedness) comes from accepting the moment as it presents itself. This means being comforted with what one has received from faith or the deity. This is sometimes called providence. It interesting to note that Stoicism has similar aspects with Christianity.
In the New Testament, Jesus calls us to have trust (not worry) each day. Otherwise, fear and worries may overwhelm us. Peter mentions that with sufficient time, Gentiles may resort to sinful behavior.
On a personal level, it is often easier said than done to have trust each day. Because of my own experiences in life, 1Cor.10:13 has become my favorite scripture. Sometimes we are called or faced with struggles and difficulties beyond our control. Sometimes we are called to join with Jesus’s suffering (redemptive suffering). In this scripture God remains faithful to us in our struggles. He will also provide a way out, so that we will be able to bear it.
For all of us who ‘embrace the suck’, I salute you.