The grass is always greener on the other side.
We often use this proverb to say that the things other people have or their situations always look better than your own, even when they are not really so. Strongly focusing on something that someone else possesses or the desire to have something that isn't ours. In fact, focusing so much so that it distracts you from enjoying what God has given you is known as coveting.
Coveting is more than thinking, "It'd be great to have a nice house," or "I'd like to have a better job." Coveting longs for someone else's stuff to be your stuff. Coveting says, "I want their house. I want his job. If only I could have what they have, then I'd be happy."
When we're covetous, we think only of what is good for us: what we would like, what would make us happy, and what could make our lives better, regardless of how others are affected. We think that God doesn't really know us and doesn't know what is best for our future growth. We often spend so much time looking over the fence at another yard and wishing our grass were that green -- to the point that we forget to enjoy playing in our own yard. So many wonderful things are in our own backyard. Unfortunately, we get obsessed with wanting the next best trinket or gadget instead of maximizing what we already have. Why is it so hard to be thankful and enjoy the blessings God has already given us?
Focus on what God has given you, and not on what He gave to someone else. Specifically commit to not paying attention to what other people have. Repeat after me: "My grass really is the best shade of green for me, and I will focus on it, be a great steward of it, and enjoy it."
Whether you spend your time enjoying what God has given you, or you waste time coveting the possessions of others is up to you.
•••
Editor's note: The Rev. Dr. Scott Stewart is the pastor of Pea Ridge United Methodist Church and Brightwater Methodist Church. The opinions expressed are those of the writer. He can be contacted at [email protected] or 479-659-9519.
Religion on 10/09/2019