Have you ever watched a herd of cattle?

I've seen them all together, calmly grazing, when one looked up and ran to another part of the pasture. The rest followed, running at full speed. When they arrived, they stopped and resumed eating as if nothing happened.

Have you ever seen a cow with her head through a fence eating whatever is on the other side? It doesn't matter if she is in a field of clover and crabgrass is on the other side, she will eat it.

Both illustrate the old adage, "the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence," maybe it's better in another part of the pasture, or just maybe: Whatever you have, somebody else has it better.

How many people do you know who are like this? If someone else has something better, they have to do whatever it takes to catch up. This happens so often it sometimes seems like human nature.

However, Paul wrote in Philippians 4:11-13 "I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation. Whether well-fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want, I can do everything through Him who gives me strength."

Sometimes, I think we need to step back and see why we want something—If it's just to keep up with someone else, or if it's something we really need. If it's something needed, by all means, get it. If however, it just fills a want to catch up with the neighbors, maybe our money or time could go towards something better.