The Temptation of Greener Grass
Grass is Greener Syndrome (GIGS) is a psychological condition where people live in a pattern of believing that happiness, fulfillment or something better always lies just beyond their current state. This syndrome causes people to evaluate reality through a lens of dissatisfaction, and they often chase the perfect scenario, the fear of missing out, and live in a state of constant discontentment. This syndrome occurs as a pattern and so the pursuit of greener grass often leads to great pain and disappointment.
In Genesis 13, we find that Abram and Lot need to separate because of tension between their herds and herdsman. Abram informed Lot that he could choose the land he wanted and that Abram would take what was left. Verses 10-13 explain that Lot chose the plain that appeared to be the greener grass, but that greener grass decision would set the stage for the influence of Sodom and Gomorrah on his family. Let’s read the Word of the Lord.
Genesis 13:10-13
Lot looked out and saw that the entire plain of the Jordan as far as Zoar was well watered everywhere like the Lord’s garden and the land of Egypt. (This was before the Lord destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah). So, Lot chose the entire plain of the Jordan for himself. Then Lot journeyed eastward, and they separated from each other. Abram lived in the land of Canaan, but Lot lived in the cities on the plain and set up his tent near Sodom. (Now the men of Sodom were evil, sinning immensely against the Lord.)
LED BY SIGHT NOT FAITH
Lot received the invitation to choose land from Abram and responded by looking out across the entire plain of Jordan. He saw a lush, fertile land that seemed to be brimming with resources. The Bible describes this land as resembling the “garden of the Lord.” The sight of the land attracted Lot, and he selected it as his dwelling place based on its physical beauty rather than spiritual insight. Lot did not seek the guidance of the Lord but instead trusted the instincts of the flesh.
Allowing the Grass is Greener Syndrome to guide us can lead to consequences like Lot's, where we neglect to seek God's wisdom. We often let our fleshly desires and superficial appearances dictate our decisions, ignoring deeper spiritual dangers hidden behind false facades. Consider what desires, platforms, or influences may be causing you to rely on sight rather than faith.
LOOKED FOR THE IMMEDIATE, NOT THE ETERNAL
Lot failed to seek the Lord for guidance and showed no concern for Abram’s herds or herdsmen. He focused solely on the immediate effects on his life, making himself the center of the situation and wishing the world to revolve around him. This mindset stems from pride and a desire for quick prosperity. Lot was interested in short-term gains without considering the lasting significance of his choices. He let immediate opportunities obscure the eternal realities.
Similar to Lot, we might hastily make decisions without seeking the Lord’s wisdom and spiritual discernment. Often, we focus on the wrong metrics, aiming for comfort, prosperity, or personal benefit rather than faithfulness. We tend to judge success and wisdom from a human viewpoint instead of trusting the Lord to guide and bless us. What actions can you take to slow down, seek God, and adopt the correct perspective before making decisions?
LANDED UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF SIN
The settlement of Lot near Sodom must never be overlooked or underestimated. The Bible describes Sodom as wicked. Interestingly, Lot moved closer to sin before actually living there. His immersion in Sodom didn't start with residence, but with proximity. This illustrates how sin operates: temptations draw us in, gradually leading us to drift closer. While Lot acquired the fertile land, he sacrificed spiritual peace, moral clarity, and family stability. What seemed like a gain for Lot ultimately resulted in a loss.
We need to recognize that the places where we choose to settle will significantly influence both our hearts and those of our families. When our decisions are driven by the Grass is Greener Syndrome, we are not guided by the Lord or spiritual discernment but by fleshly desires, leading us to set up camp near worldly influences. This tendency gradually causes us to drift away from faithfulness and adopt worldly ways. Where are the choices in your life leading you to settle?
The allure of the Grass is Greener Syndrome still influences us today. We are tempted to make choices based on appearances rather than faith, battling the challenge of trusting what we see versus trusting who God is. Lot’s experience teaches us that true blessing does not come from a better land but from having a right heart. Similarly, for us, the key remains: blessing is found not in better surroundings but in surrendering our hearts to God.
