Greener On The Other Side
We have heard this phrase for years. The grass is greener on the other side of the fence. This phrase started years ago when some farm animals left their pasture and entered another pasture.
We sometimes use this idiom to project our intentions of going to get a better job, start a new life, or begin a new endeavor. Sometimes we use the phrase to express our dissatisfaction over our conditions. Often we think of getting a better paying job because our neighbor can afford that fancy car, and we are stuck with that used sedan. Right here you can see the problem at the core. We are not happy people.
There are times when we examine ourselves and become frustrated. We do not have those things we desire. Often times those things we desire are not in our best interest. 1 John 2:15-17 explains the interest of our desires as being the lust of the flesh, eyes, and the pride of life. There are times when rules and regulations (and yes, I am talking about the Bible) get in our way. We can't have any fun like our neighbors who never follow God's rules. We desire things which are not good for us, and some people know that getting those things are destructive to our souls. Some people desire status and they often build up their own ego. I used to say about a person who could not sing very well that he was very musical, because he was always tooting his own horn. His ego and pride were very projected towards others. Some may be able to handle such, but people like that have a tendency to think of themselves higher than they should, and may consider themselves to be equal with God in the decision making process.
The core problem and the reason for this article is that most people have not learned to be satisfied with their own situation. It may not matter how much money you earn or acquire, it just isn't enough. It may not matter how much you enjoy sin, there never is enough time to do more of it. You may think of yourself higher than you ought, and you can never get enough accolades and pats on the back.
The apostle Paul wrote to the Philippians that he had learned the secret to happiness and contentment. He said that he was content with prosperity and that he could be content in poverty (4:11-12). The key to Paul's happiness was not in himself. He said: "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me".
You see, there is the solution. We often look to ourselves to change our condition, and when we do, we lose focus upon Jesus. The Hebrews writer wrote that we should not waver and that we should keep our eyes focused on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). We also have the admonition from Paul: "For through the grace given me, I say to every man among you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgment, as God has allotted to each a measure of faith" (Romans 12:3).
Most people who have learned this secret to success are happier than those who haven't. Those who have not learned to be content are miserable people, and they either mask it or project it where others can see.
Learn to thank God each day for what you have. You must realize that your blessings are far greater than most of the people on this earth. Thank God each day for what you have, and use His blessings to help others see their need to seek and serve God.
By Carey Scott

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