The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence

“He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,” Psalm 23:2

The grass is greener on the other side of the fence talks about those who never seem to be satisfied with their own situation and are constantly comparing their life to others because they think others have it better. This is an old proverbial phrase talking about the jealousy we have towards others that are more successful.

I grew up on a farm with cattle so I can tell you first hand that cows actually do stretch their necks through the fence to reach the tall grass on the other side. There’s just something about it that entices them to “risk their necks” for the taller grass.

Aren’t we humans the same way sometimes? We want the latest and greatest rather than just being content with what we have. Kids are the worst because they see the new gadget of the month at a friend's house and they want that too. Grandma used to say, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. What she was really saying is be thankful with what you have.

When we were starting our family, I went back to work but I felt a tug at my heart that led us to make the decision to stay home with the kids. We knew it would be a financial strain but we were trusting God. It was amazing to see how the Lord blessed our decision through the gifts from those around us. I remember ladies from church showing up with bags of clothes for our children that were the perfect size for the right season.

There will always be greener grass around us but we have to learn to be content in our own pasture. The 23rd psalm is a beautiful metaphor of us being the sheep and the Lord being the shepherd. A sheep only lies down when they feel safe and are content while the green pastures represent a life that flourishes. The Lord is our shepherd that leads us to quiet waters for tranquility, peace, and rest that can only come from knowing Him.

Continent comes from within. Hebrews 13:5 reminds us, “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” The secret to living a content life is being united with Christ where He becomes the source of our strength regardless of our circumstances.