Fighting 'The Grass is Greener' Conspiracy

This week’s Bible study lesson was on contentment. The author shared 5 ‘rules’ to help cultivate this spirit of gratitude toward God in all circumstances:

1. Allow ourselves to complain of nothing, not even the weather.
2. Never picture ourselves in any circumstances in which we are not.
3. Never compare our lot with that of another.
4. Never allow ourselves to wish that this or that had been otherwise.
5. Never dwell on tomorrow; remember that is God’s and not ours.

What is the heart issue of contentment?
(This is the question I ask about everything!)
I’d suggest it is that of revealing what one’s heart truly loves and in what it delights.

IF our heart is seeking fully after God and His glory, His ways, His honor, we will be content in the situation and circumstances that He has ordained. They are of His choosing to accomplish in the best way possible His priorities and purposes. Even the hard stuff.

IF our heart is seeking something or someone else to give us peace, pleasure, satisfaction, etc., then we will grow unhappy if our idea of how this should look is thwarted. We become unhappy until things are back under our control and look as we think they ought.

Contentment isn’t so much a possession to be gained as much as a journey to continue in. As I choose God to be my delight (through cultivating my love for Him), I will see the specifics of my life from the perspective of his sovereign, loving, wise control.
All is well regardless of what happens around me.

When my heart would beckon me to disparage or become disappointed in things as they are, I readjust my lens and seek to renew my mind and heart with His perspective.
I’m not living for this world.
I’m investing and preparing for the next.

Often the things that would bring discontent are exactly what I need to keep my heart focused on eternity and not too comfortable with the here and now.

Contentment.
Another fruit to cultivate by abiding in the vine.
The 5 ‘rules’ above could be considered pruning tips.

“Keep your life free from the love of money, and be content with what you have for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5