How to be Content at Home

We love it when you share!

How to be content at home when your space doesn’t feel ‘right’? Home is more than just a physical space; it’s where we build memories, nurture relationships, and grow spiritually. But, in a world that often equates success with bigger and better, how can we find contentment with our current homes, no matter the stage of life we’re in?

We’ve lived in this home for almost five years, we moved in November 2019 and although this home is beautiful to me, it didn’t start out that way. I’m grateful that the home was completely finished so in one sense it wasn’t a fixer-upper, but in another sense, it was outdated in spots and it is a manufactured home, which in all truthfulness, I have always been very uncomfortable with.

I’m so self-conscious of this that I refused to show videos or pictures in front of the home. It just seems flat and dead to me. The driveway butts up all the way to the front of the house and when we were originally shown the house, I told Dan ‘no’ as soon as we pulled in because of how hideous I thought it looked. Now my dream is to have a porch on that front, but we are so far away from that happening.

As I’ve made this home my own, I’ve fallen in love with the inside of the home and the 40 acres it sits on. We’re blessed, but this past year when my husband was laid off from his job, all our home improvement dreams came to a resounding halt. I’ve always been careful with upgrading our home and usually even saved up for or intentionally planned in our monthly budget for things as simple as throw pillows or a can of paint to freshen up the space.

Even saving up for DIY projects or something as simple as a rug has come to an unmovable halt as we’ve had to save up for things as simple as the coffee we drink.

This past month, I found myself slipping into resentment as I looked around outside and inside our home and in my emotional (postpartum and pregnant at the same time) state, allowed myself to succumb to the rather disgusting state of discontent.

I really struggled to write this piece as I know that we are still blessed beyond measure and I don’t want to appear to be playing a violin of ‘struggle’ when it’s very obvious that God is still taking care of us. It will appear to some that my feelings are trite in comparison to the hardships of others and I acknowledge that, which is why I’m writing this piece.

However this idea of writing about being content with our home kept tugging on my heart and so rather than ignore that gentle nudge, I’m going to dive right into this idea of Biblical contentedness even when our sinful emotions are tugging us in a different direction.

It’s easy to feel discontent when social media showcases immaculate homes with trendy décor and perfect lighting. However, as Christians, we are called to live differently—contentment isn’t found in a bigger house or the newest paint colors, but in the simple things, the gratitude we practice, and the peace that comes from knowing God has placed us exactly where we need to be, regardless of the state of our home.

This page may contain affiliate links. To view my full affiliate link disclosure, click here. There are Amazon affiliate links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I make a small commission from Amazon links in this post. Find our privacy policy, terms of service, and more information about user data by visiting the links above.

The False Formula of Contentment

The world tends to offer a formula for happiness: bigger house + more stuff = greater happiness.

But Scripture teaches the opposite. The apostle Paul, who knew both plenty and need, said,

 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.

Philippians 4:12

His contentment didn’t come from his surroundings; it came from Christ. True contentment is not in the size of our homes or the number of throw pillows on our couches. It’s about being at peace with what God has provided and finding joy in the present moment.

Practice Gratitude: The Key to a Happy Home

One of the easiest ways to be content with your home is by practicing gratitude. This sounds simple, but it’s incredibly effective. When we focus on what we already have, we stop longing for more.

It’s easy for me to focus on the things that I’m discontent with. There are walls with holes in them that need painting and repair, there are two very hideous areas with stained and exceptionally old carpet, my driveway butts up to my siding, my countertops are from the 90s or older, my faucets are in dire need of an upgrade, and that’s only the beginning of my list.

What if I flipped the script though? As a family of 6, soon to be 7 we are not living in a unfinished tiny home, with just over 1,000 square feet of space. Instead, we’re living in a much bigger home. Just that alone should be enough for me, shouldn’t it?

Do you have a living room that your family can gather in after a long day? That’s a gift. Even if your home is small or cluttered, take time to thank God for it. Each morning, try to think of at least three things about your home that you’re grateful for.

Actually, I made a printout for myself and added it to my Homemaking Binder. However, I think this is such an important practice, that I want you to have it for free. It’s simply a Canva template, so no signup or email is required on my end. Click here to grab it, or right-click and save the image below.

Scripture encourages us to have thankful hearts. In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, Paul writes,

give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Thessalonians 5:18 ESV

When we practice gratitude, we’re aligning ourselves with God’s will. It’s a practical tip that can transform not just how we see our home, but our entire life.

How to be Content at Home

Finding contentment with your home, no matter its size or condition is possible when you shift your focus from material perfection to gratitude and purpose. Here are six practical ways to foster contentment: practice gratitude for what you have, avoid the trap of comparison, make small changes that have a big impact, embrace the stage of life you’re in, reduce clutter to create more peace, and prioritize meaningful connections over physical appearance. By focusing on these steps, you can create a home that nurtures joy and reflects what truly matters.

Stop Comparing: The Social Media Trap

Social media can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it offers us great ideas for home décor, DIY projects, and inspiration. On the other, it can fuel discontentment when we compare our homes to the curated and often unrealistic pictures we see online. The truth is, a perfect home doesn’t exist. Behind every flawless Instagram post, there’s likely a mess just out of frame. Or like in my case, a double-wide manufactured home that produces feelings of embarrassment.

It’s important to remember that the things we see on social media are just highlights, not the full picture. Proverbs 14:30 says,

A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot.

Proverbs 14:30 ESV

Envy over a larger living space, new furniture, or a bigger house won’t lead to contentment—it will only steal our peace. Instead, focus on making your own home a reflection of your personal style and your family’s needs, without the pressure of external comparisons.

I love watching and listening to Farmhouse on Boone and you can bet your bottom dollar that I’ll still continue to watch and listen to her wisdom and inspiration. However my content diet of Farmhouse on Boone and her beautiful home that she consistently makes upgrades to, started to contribute to my feelings of discontent. Comparison can be toxic and sometimes we need to go on a ‘content diet’ when these feelings start to surface.

Make Small Changes with Big Impact

While contentment begins with gratitude and rejecting comparison, that doesn’t mean you can’t make little changes to improve your home. Sometimes, a fresh coat of paint or rearranging furniture can make your home feel brand new. You don’t need a lot of money to create a happy place. Something as simple as decluttering a room or adding a few new throw pillows can have a big impact on how your space feels.

I do something in my home that I’ve dubbed ‘shop my home’. Sometimes there is no extra for a fresh can of paint and this is where the joy of shopping your home and help.

There are often little items tucked away or a tablecloth that you’ve forgotten about folded in a closet. When I’m looking to refresh a space and find greater joy in that space, but I can’t afford to do the DIY project I want or buy the decor I want, I start by shopping my house.

I might find a used can of paint that will freshen up a space, or maybe an old stool in the garage I can DIY with tools I already possess. I might find a decor item downstairs that I can swap with something upstairs. I might find some old curtains that I can spruce up to make a space feel new. Hopefully, you get the idea. Next time you feel a wave of discontent, start by shopping for your own home.

If you’re on a tight budget, consider starting with one room. Maybe it’s your living room where you spend the most time. Try changing the layout, adding some plants for natural light, or simply cleaning up the clutter.

Proverbs 24:3-4 tells us,

By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.

Proverbs 24:3-4 ESV

The “treasures” in your home don’t have to be expensive or brand new; sometimes, it’s the simplest things that bring the most joy.

Embrace the Stage You’re In

Contentment isn’t about waiting until you have your dream home. It’s about embracing the home you have now, no matter the stage of life you’re in or where your budget is at. Whether you’re in your first apartment, a smaller home, or even your dream house, each stage has its own challenges and blessings. Instead of longing for a much larger home or more square feet, take time to enjoy the space you have now.

In Ecclesiastes 3:1, we’re reminded that

For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:

Ecclesiastes 3:1 ESV

This is true for our homes as well. Your current home, whether big or small, is where God has placed you for this season. It’s where you’re meant to raise your family, grow in your faith, and create lasting memories. So, instead of focusing on the next home or the next project, focus on how you can make your current home a place of peace and contentment.

Less Stuff, More Peace

Clutter can make any home feel chaotic. In a world that often encourages us to accumulate more, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that we need more stuff to be happy. But the truth is, less is often more when it comes to our homes. A clean home, free of unnecessary clutter, can do wonders for your mental and physical health.

• Tips for decluttering + checklist and printables

Start by decluttering one room at a time. Maybe it’s your bedroom, where you retreat at the end of the day for rest. Clearing out excess items can create a peaceful environment, making it easier to relax and unwind. Jesus said in Luke 12:15,

And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”

Luke 12:15

The more we let go of the idea that we need more stuff to be happy, the more room we create for contentment and peace.

Create a Space for Connection

A happy home isn’t just about the physical space; it’s about the relationships built within it. Whether you’re hosting dinner parties, gathering for family meals, or spending time in prayer, your home is a great opportunity to nurture relationships with family and friends. One of the most practical tips for contentment is to focus on how your home can serve others.

Hebrews 13:2 encourages us,

Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

Hebrews 13:2

Opening your home to others—whether it’s for a meal, Bible study, or just to chat—is a great way to create positive experiences and share God’s love. You don’t need a perfect house to make people feel welcome. In fact, sometimes the simplest things, like a warm meal and good conversation, can make the biggest impact. Read more about this in Sally Clarkson’s Life Giving Table book.

• Small Space DIY Coffee Nook

Focus on What Matters Most

At the end of the day, the size of your house, the paint colors on your walls, or the amount of square feet you have won’t bring lasting happiness. Contentment comes from focusing on what truly matters—your faith, your relationships, and your purpose.

Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust^[a] destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Matthew 6:19-21 ESV

If you find yourself feeling discontent, take a step back and evaluate what’s truly driving those feelings. Is it because you’re comparing your home to someone else’s? Are you focusing too much on external factors, like new furniture or bigger spaces? Refocusing on eternal values can help bring your heart back to a place of peace and contentment.

Finding Joy in the Everyday

Finally, learn to find joy in the everyday moments of your home. Whether it’s sharing a cup of coffee in your little nook, watching your kids play in the backyard, or spending time in prayer in your living room, it’s the little things that often bring the most joy. Psalm 118:24 reminds us,

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Psalm 118:24 ESV

Each day is a gift from God, and our homes—no matter the size or state—are part of that gift.

Your home is more than just a building; it’s a reflection of your heart and your priorities. By practicing gratitude, avoiding comparison, making small changes, and focusing on relationships, you can find true contentment in your home, no matter what stage it’s in. Contentment doesn’t come from having a bigger house or more things—it comes from knowing that God has given you exactly what you need, right where you are.

I know someone out there is thinking ‘but Rachael, if only I had what you have, then I would be content.’ You know when we lived in our just over 1,000 square foot home, I longed for a garage and a pantry. I thought those two things would make any home livable. Now I have them and once again, I’ve found other things to line my heart with feelings of discontent. Truth be told, as humans we always will find something inadequate about our circumstances without the truth of God’s Word saturating our minds and hearts.

So, next time you feel a twinge of discontent, remember that your home—no matter how small, cluttered, or imperfect—is a gift from God. With gratitude, a little creativity, and a focus on what matters most, you can create a space that brings peace, healing, and joy to you and your family, reflecting the love of Christ in every corner.

More Homemaking Content:

Don’t Forget to Pin for Later!