Then they despised the pleasant land; they did not believe his promise.

— Psalm 106:24

My computer shows me interesting pictures each time it starts up. As I prepare to log in with my password, I see images of beautiful places around the world: tropical islands, scenic mountain meadows, stunning landscapes, bustling city streets. These images, of course, are carefully selected to catch my attention. Not surprisingly, I often go searching for information about some of these places, even wondering what it would be like to live there.

Have you heard the old saying “The grass is always greener on the other side . . .”? Of course, I have to remember that living in a mountainous paradise would lack many of the things I appreciate at home. My family and friends don’t live there. The community connections and conveniences I have are not there. But at times I am still tempted by the lure of a new place.

Something like that can happen to us spiritually too. The psalmist recalls how God gave his people a home. God brought them out of Egypt and protected and provided for them. But Israel often longed for something different, thinking they could do better. Yet, in running from God, they ran from the One who provided their true home.

Our sinful hearts easily forget the gift of the home we have with God. Can we recognize the dangers of our restlessness?

“Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it; prone to leave the God I love.” God, remind us of the grace of serving you where you place us, and keep us near you in Jesus. Amen.