Albert Barnes Commentary 1 Timothy 6:8

"but having food and covering we shall be therewith content." — 1 Timothy 6:8 (ASV)

And having food and raiment. "Food and raiment," here, seem to be used to denote supplies for our needs in general. It is not uncommon to denote the whole by a part, and as these are the principal things which we really need, and without which life could not be sustained, the apostle uses the phrase to denote all that is really necessary for us. We cannot suppose that he would forbid a desire for a comfortable home, or for the means of knowledge, or for conveniences for worshipping God, etc. The idea is, that having those things which meet the actual necessities of our nature, and save us from distress, we should not strive after "uncertain riches," or make wealth the object of our anxious pursuit. See also Philippians 4:11 and Philippians 4:12.