“Not that I am speaking of being in need,
for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.”
– Philippians 4:11 (ESV)

You may think the grass is greener on the other side, but if you take the time to water your own grass, it could be just as green. It’s a natural for coaches and athletes to be in search of bigger and better opportunities. In the attempt to move up the coaching ladder or acquire more playing time, eyes are often looking for greener grass. Sometimes, we get ahead of ourselves in the process. How often do we get impatient or frustrated with our present situation and simply give up or move on to something else? How often do we find the green grass that looks so good at a distance is not nearly as green as the grass we are standing on? In our haste, it’s all too easy to miss the amazing opportunities in our own pasture as we gaze longingly at distant pastures on the horizon.

Paul’s words are teaching about contentment in all areas of our life. True contentment is seldom found in money, jobs or “things” in general. Paul encourages us to look beyond the obvious and to search for that contentment that comes within ourselves and through a meaningful relationship with Jesus Christ. In Jesus, we have “ALL” we need! Instead of spending so much time thinking about what we don’t have, maybe we should focus a little more on what we do have and how we can use it better for the glory of God.

Heavenly Father, You are my provision. Teach me to find contentment in the pasture You have given me and to make it as green as possible. May I always give You the glory. In Jesus name, Amen.