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The Greener Grass Conspiracy: Finding Contentment on Your Side of the Fence
There is a cosmic conspiracy affecting every person who has ever lived. The world, our hearts, and Satan himself conspire to steal our happiness. These powerful agents breed discontentment with our possessions, relationships, jobs, and circumstances.
Altrogge writes from his own experience. He argues that while discontentment assaults us from every direction, its promises are empty. “If only’s” may offer happiness, satisfaction, or a better life, but on their own they can’t deliver.
With humor and honesty, Altrogge helps us do battle with discontentment by steering us back to the central truths of the gospel. He addresses issues like complaining and idolatry and reminds us of all that we have, and will have, in Christ. Readers will be drawn to his winsome writing and practical application. Discussion questions follow each chapter, making this book a useful resource for small groups.
146 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 5, 2011
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196 people want to read
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May 4, 2011
Having one of the better book titles I’ve heard in a while and addressing a topic very pertinent to my life, I was excited to read Stephen Altrogge’s new book, The Greener Grass Conspiracy. Contentment is something severely lacking in our world, even (sometimes especially) among professing Christians. I count myself among this group, always looking for the next thing to temporarily satisfy my perceived “needs,” give my life tangible meaning, or divert my attention for a few hours from the part of my life I simply endure. I’m prone to complaining and operate from a sense of entitlement much of the time, feeling (although not voicing) that God owes me more than this.
I don’t think I’m alone in these feelings. As Altrogge expertly points out in this book, as humans living in a fallen world with the remnants of sin still clinging to us, we are inclined to selfishness and a longing for what we don’t have. Despite the many blessings we’ve seen God continually pore out on us and the numerous promises of future blessings, we operate from a mindset that subconsciously treats God as a “deadbeat deity” (Altrogge’s term) who we are constantly judging based on our circumstances, situations, and emotional states. God’s just not doing a good enough job running things, we think, and so we aren’t content.
This short treatment on the subject has a very logical flow and the arguments are well-developed over the course of the book, as each chapter builds the case for why contentment can (and should) be found in any circumstance. Pulling from the lives of Solomon, Paul, and his own personal anecdotes, Altrogge builds the case for why simply attaining whatever it is we want won’t lead to lasting happiness. Since happiness can’t be tethered to circumstances or things, it must be latched onto Christ to endure. The argument builds to the middle of the book where the gospel is clearly presented, and then the rest of the book works out many of the practical applications.
My favorite chapter was called “Eat the Meat and Die,” where we see a poignant comparison between the Israelites complaining and subsequent plague from the quail in the desert to our complaining today. The point: God takes complaining seriously. I was convicted by the discussion to do the same with my complaints and see them for what they are: indictments of God and how He’s handling things that affect my life. It’s treason, really.
Altrogge writes with candor, with humor, and with a pastor’s sensitivity that realizes contentment is not easily attained, even if the truths that lead to it are readily acknowledged. His discussion of suffering and contentment was particularly gentle but firm. I found the book enjoyable, convicting, and I will probably go back and read it again to fully digest much of it for my own personal growth (at only 139 pages it a quick read).
My generation is one that operates on principles of entitlement and discontent. Many have even painted discontent as a positive quality, in that we should never be satisfied and should always “push for more.” God’s people shouldn’t lack ambition, but it shouldn’t be motivated by a lack of contentment. Paul wrote to the Philippians that he had learned to be content in any circumstance (which included much more than most of our struggles that lead to discontent). How? Through Christ, who strengthened him. That’s the source of our contentment. This book will help you love Christ more, and in doing so, will point you to the source of true contentment, regardless of your temporal circumstances this side of heaven.
I don’t think I’m alone in these feelings. As Altrogge expertly points out in this book, as humans living in a fallen world with the remnants of sin still clinging to us, we are inclined to selfishness and a longing for what we don’t have. Despite the many blessings we’ve seen God continually pore out on us and the numerous promises of future blessings, we operate from a mindset that subconsciously treats God as a “deadbeat deity” (Altrogge’s term) who we are constantly judging based on our circumstances, situations, and emotional states. God’s just not doing a good enough job running things, we think, and so we aren’t content.
This short treatment on the subject has a very logical flow and the arguments are well-developed over the course of the book, as each chapter builds the case for why contentment can (and should) be found in any circumstance. Pulling from the lives of Solomon, Paul, and his own personal anecdotes, Altrogge builds the case for why simply attaining whatever it is we want won’t lead to lasting happiness. Since happiness can’t be tethered to circumstances or things, it must be latched onto Christ to endure. The argument builds to the middle of the book where the gospel is clearly presented, and then the rest of the book works out many of the practical applications.
My favorite chapter was called “Eat the Meat and Die,” where we see a poignant comparison between the Israelites complaining and subsequent plague from the quail in the desert to our complaining today. The point: God takes complaining seriously. I was convicted by the discussion to do the same with my complaints and see them for what they are: indictments of God and how He’s handling things that affect my life. It’s treason, really.
Altrogge writes with candor, with humor, and with a pastor’s sensitivity that realizes contentment is not easily attained, even if the truths that lead to it are readily acknowledged. His discussion of suffering and contentment was particularly gentle but firm. I found the book enjoyable, convicting, and I will probably go back and read it again to fully digest much of it for my own personal growth (at only 139 pages it a quick read).
My generation is one that operates on principles of entitlement and discontent. Many have even painted discontent as a positive quality, in that we should never be satisfied and should always “push for more.” God’s people shouldn’t lack ambition, but it shouldn’t be motivated by a lack of contentment. Paul wrote to the Philippians that he had learned to be content in any circumstance (which included much more than most of our struggles that lead to discontent). How? Through Christ, who strengthened him. That’s the source of our contentment. This book will help you love Christ more, and in doing so, will point you to the source of true contentment, regardless of your temporal circumstances this side of heaven.
June 9, 2013
This is the best book I've read on seeking contentment. I love the comic drama Stephen Altrogge uses to explain the general human condition of discontentment. It's a conspiracy theory between the world, our hearts and Satan to steal our happiness. They do it by deceiving us into thinking we can find happiness somewhere other than in God. He has a wonderful way of creating word pictures to help us get it. A lot of this book is written with that terrific sort of humour that convicts us in a highly entertaining way.
I loved the description of his coffee shop meeting with King Solomon, who he describes as a combination of Albert Einstein, John Lennon, Donald Trump, Billy Graham, the president and Bill Gates. And it's hard to resist his imagery of idolatry. We hold a baseball-sized diamond in one hand and a mud-encrusted rock in the other. Being forced to choose between the two, we shockingly toss the diamond aside. In future moments of misery, I'll definitely take time to figure out which muddy rock I'm chasing after now. There is a whole chapter on all the reasons we have to be cheerful and grateful which I'm sure will be an instant bad mood buster too.
I was hoping Altrogge would take readers even further. People at many stages of their Christian walk will read this book. He convinces us that we must focus our worship on God alone, then leaves us to ourselves when it comes to figuring out how to love this being who may seem like thin air to many, as He can't be sensed with the five physical senses. Although he touches on this, someone with Stephen Altrogge's writing ability might have done a wonderful job in convincing readers why God is so worthy as a person. Even though this may be the subject of another book, an extra chapter focusing on His names and character may have really rounded this book out.
I loved the description of his coffee shop meeting with King Solomon, who he describes as a combination of Albert Einstein, John Lennon, Donald Trump, Billy Graham, the president and Bill Gates. And it's hard to resist his imagery of idolatry. We hold a baseball-sized diamond in one hand and a mud-encrusted rock in the other. Being forced to choose between the two, we shockingly toss the diamond aside. In future moments of misery, I'll definitely take time to figure out which muddy rock I'm chasing after now. There is a whole chapter on all the reasons we have to be cheerful and grateful which I'm sure will be an instant bad mood buster too.
I was hoping Altrogge would take readers even further. People at many stages of their Christian walk will read this book. He convinces us that we must focus our worship on God alone, then leaves us to ourselves when it comes to figuring out how to love this being who may seem like thin air to many, as He can't be sensed with the five physical senses. Although he touches on this, someone with Stephen Altrogge's writing ability might have done a wonderful job in convincing readers why God is so worthy as a person. Even though this may be the subject of another book, an extra chapter focusing on His names and character may have really rounded this book out.
July 4, 2013
On the whole, a helpful book. I didn't love the author's style/sense of humor; it came across a bit cheesy, like he was trying too hard to be conversational and down-to-earth and funny. Still, he had valuable things to say. I copied/underlined several quotes and passages. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this to someone who was struggling with contentment, dissatisfaction, jealousy, etc. Very God-centered and hope-filled.
April 17, 2013
I loved this book. Engaging, encouraging, Biblical - everything that I hoped for. You can tell that Stephen Altrogge works very hard on both his content and writing style. Before reading the book I knew I struggled with contentment, but this book helped me understand more clearly why I struggle and how to grow in contentment through a right view of God and His grace. I will be thumbing through my highlights and notes often.
July 16, 2011
A good introduction to what the Puritans wrote on contentment (especially Jeremiah Burroughs and Thomas Watson). The only problem with the work had to do with suffering and tragedy. I feel like more needed to be said on how saints are to deal with dark nights of the soul.
September 11, 2011
Read this book. Please.
From the title, I was afraid of a step-by-step-how-to-be-happy guide book. But Greener Grass is no such thing. With fresh (often hilarious) language, Altrogge simply and passionately challenges you to fix your eyes on Jesus, the fountain of life!
From the title, I was afraid of a step-by-step-how-to-be-happy guide book. But Greener Grass is no such thing. With fresh (often hilarious) language, Altrogge simply and passionately challenges you to fix your eyes on Jesus, the fountain of life!
November 12, 2014
A couple of weeks ago God began to deal with me greatly on the issue of contentment. It was the issue that was at the forefront of my prayers, my time in the Word, my thoughts. I was being greatly tempted by feelings of discontent and entitlement. Those are feelings that are not conducive to a productive, worshipful Christian life. About this time I received a complimentary copy of a book from Crossway that dealt with this very issue. The Greener Grass Conspiracy by Stephen Altrogge is a fun, easy, convicting and edifying book that is well worth the investment of the small amount of time it takes to make it through the 140 pages.
Let me briefly comment on Altrogge’s style and then deal with the content of the book. Altrogge is masterful in the way he uses humor to compliment his content. His use of stories is not to fill text or to simply keep someone interested. He uses humor as a means of disarming the reader as he deals with personal and difficult issues in a frank manner. His humor is the anesthesia before the scalpel, and he wields both of them well.
As entertaining as this brother is, the content of the book is the real draw. The Greener Grass Conspiracy looks at the conspiracy between the enemy and our flesh to ensure our discontentment, and how we can overcome this opposition. Chapter one shows us that we are not content, not because of our circumstances but, because of our “idol factory” of a heart. We are constantly creating idols to worship instead of finding peace and joy in the one true God.
In the second chapter, Altrogge explains that he is not the center of the universe. This part was rather obvious to me. The surprising part was that he presented a convincing argument that I actually was not the center of the universe either. And neither are you. When we begin to understand this we can truly begin to be much more content with how God chooses to treat us, because this is His universe. I may have an opinion on how He should run things but that is all I have, an opinion. A difference between Him and I is that He actually possesses a universe that was created for Him and by Him.
Chapter 3 addresses the misconception that contentment is equivalent to “ambitionless asceticism”. Neither a lack of desire nor a lack of ambition is contentment but rather “contentment is a disposition of the heart that freely and joyfully submits to God’s will, whatever that may be”. We recognize Romans 8:28, that God uses all things for the good of those who love Him. But take note of the term “joyfully”. Contentment is not treating God like a “divine dentist”. We do not bear with God, we “joyfully” submit to Him because we have tasted and seen just how good He really is.
“Discontentment is the result of misplaced worship,” and “the only way to grow in contentment is to undergo the process of identifying and destroying the idols in our lives.” Chapter 4 is the part of the book where “we re-break your nose, twist your foot, and rip your toenail out”, “where things get uncomfortable.” All this is necessary because we suffer from a self-inflicted worship malfunction, and the remedy, though necessary and sweet, is often painful.
Chapter 5 argues that contentment cannot be circumstantial, not matter how opulent the circumstances. There are lies that we believe and we must learn to spot them and believe the truth. The worst part of these lies is not that deceive us but that they attack God’s character, leading us to believe things about God that would minimize the glorious nature of who He is. This is not a small problem or an insignificant issue.
The chief offspring of discontentment is complaining and chapter 6 deals with this sin in light of the Gospel. The Gospel is the message that God covered our sins with the blood of Jesus, His Son. He purchased our forgiveness. He purchased us. Discontentment could easily be expressed as contempt of the Gospel. Discontentment and its firstborn, complaining, are a slap in the face of the Gospel and of the God who spared not His Son to redeem us from the sin we loved and the wrath we deserved. As a child of God, I have an eternal relationship with the Father. I have more than enough incentive to be more than content.
Chapter 7 is about suburban, Christian, pre-adolescents and their affinity for less than stellar white rappers…or something like that. Actually it is about the road to contentment, which is very rarely a straight and smooth thoroughfare. The path that leads to contentment is most often littered with hardship and heartache. Chapter 8 reveals the secret to contentment and our need for an “Antiques Road Show” moment.
Chapter 9 is entitled “Eat the Meat and Die”. Altrogge again deals with complaining and the resulting wrath from God that complaining elicits. “Count Your Blessings—Literally,” is a call to see the evidence of God’s love as shown through His provision. It is not, however, an argument for minimizing the burdens and heartaches that we, or others, endure, but rather it is a call to see these hardships for what they are, momentary and fleeting and see God for who He is, eternal and faithful.
“The Furnace of Suffering” illustrates the truth of how God refines the Christian through suffering, hardship, and persecution. We know that we can endure this fire because not only has our God endured it, but He walks us through it. Chapter 12 gets to a key component of discontentment that I wish had been introduced earlier in the text. Discontentment in the life of a Christian is often just a longing for Heaven, an impatience for what God has in store for those He has mercifully saved. We can be content when we realize that Heaven for the believer, that is God’s presence and our holiness, begins at new birth rather than physical death. Heaven, to those of us still in the flesh, may not be fully realized, but it is fully real.
This book is excellent. How is that for straight forward? Altrogge does a great job of drawing you in and then slapping you with the truth of God. God used this book mightily to minister to me on an issue that is prevalent and pervasive in our culture of idolatry and discontentment. I greatly believe that God will do the same for any who read it with a desire to be convicted and broken over their sin and restored by the truth of the Gospel presented within “The Greener Grass Conspiracy”.
Let me briefly comment on Altrogge’s style and then deal with the content of the book. Altrogge is masterful in the way he uses humor to compliment his content. His use of stories is not to fill text or to simply keep someone interested. He uses humor as a means of disarming the reader as he deals with personal and difficult issues in a frank manner. His humor is the anesthesia before the scalpel, and he wields both of them well.
As entertaining as this brother is, the content of the book is the real draw. The Greener Grass Conspiracy looks at the conspiracy between the enemy and our flesh to ensure our discontentment, and how we can overcome this opposition. Chapter one shows us that we are not content, not because of our circumstances but, because of our “idol factory” of a heart. We are constantly creating idols to worship instead of finding peace and joy in the one true God.
In the second chapter, Altrogge explains that he is not the center of the universe. This part was rather obvious to me. The surprising part was that he presented a convincing argument that I actually was not the center of the universe either. And neither are you. When we begin to understand this we can truly begin to be much more content with how God chooses to treat us, because this is His universe. I may have an opinion on how He should run things but that is all I have, an opinion. A difference between Him and I is that He actually possesses a universe that was created for Him and by Him.
Chapter 3 addresses the misconception that contentment is equivalent to “ambitionless asceticism”. Neither a lack of desire nor a lack of ambition is contentment but rather “contentment is a disposition of the heart that freely and joyfully submits to God’s will, whatever that may be”. We recognize Romans 8:28, that God uses all things for the good of those who love Him. But take note of the term “joyfully”. Contentment is not treating God like a “divine dentist”. We do not bear with God, we “joyfully” submit to Him because we have tasted and seen just how good He really is.
“Discontentment is the result of misplaced worship,” and “the only way to grow in contentment is to undergo the process of identifying and destroying the idols in our lives.” Chapter 4 is the part of the book where “we re-break your nose, twist your foot, and rip your toenail out”, “where things get uncomfortable.” All this is necessary because we suffer from a self-inflicted worship malfunction, and the remedy, though necessary and sweet, is often painful.
Chapter 5 argues that contentment cannot be circumstantial, not matter how opulent the circumstances. There are lies that we believe and we must learn to spot them and believe the truth. The worst part of these lies is not that deceive us but that they attack God’s character, leading us to believe things about God that would minimize the glorious nature of who He is. This is not a small problem or an insignificant issue.
The chief offspring of discontentment is complaining and chapter 6 deals with this sin in light of the Gospel. The Gospel is the message that God covered our sins with the blood of Jesus, His Son. He purchased our forgiveness. He purchased us. Discontentment could easily be expressed as contempt of the Gospel. Discontentment and its firstborn, complaining, are a slap in the face of the Gospel and of the God who spared not His Son to redeem us from the sin we loved and the wrath we deserved. As a child of God, I have an eternal relationship with the Father. I have more than enough incentive to be more than content.
Chapter 7 is about suburban, Christian, pre-adolescents and their affinity for less than stellar white rappers…or something like that. Actually it is about the road to contentment, which is very rarely a straight and smooth thoroughfare. The path that leads to contentment is most often littered with hardship and heartache. Chapter 8 reveals the secret to contentment and our need for an “Antiques Road Show” moment.
Chapter 9 is entitled “Eat the Meat and Die”. Altrogge again deals with complaining and the resulting wrath from God that complaining elicits. “Count Your Blessings—Literally,” is a call to see the evidence of God’s love as shown through His provision. It is not, however, an argument for minimizing the burdens and heartaches that we, or others, endure, but rather it is a call to see these hardships for what they are, momentary and fleeting and see God for who He is, eternal and faithful.
“The Furnace of Suffering” illustrates the truth of how God refines the Christian through suffering, hardship, and persecution. We know that we can endure this fire because not only has our God endured it, but He walks us through it. Chapter 12 gets to a key component of discontentment that I wish had been introduced earlier in the text. Discontentment in the life of a Christian is often just a longing for Heaven, an impatience for what God has in store for those He has mercifully saved. We can be content when we realize that Heaven for the believer, that is God’s presence and our holiness, begins at new birth rather than physical death. Heaven, to those of us still in the flesh, may not be fully realized, but it is fully real.
This book is excellent. How is that for straight forward? Altrogge does a great job of drawing you in and then slapping you with the truth of God. God used this book mightily to minister to me on an issue that is prevalent and pervasive in our culture of idolatry and discontentment. I greatly believe that God will do the same for any who read it with a desire to be convicted and broken over their sin and restored by the truth of the Gospel presented within “The Greener Grass Conspiracy”.
April 26, 2011
REVIEW: The Greener Grass Conspiracy: Finding Contentment on You Side of the Fence
Author: Stephen Altrogge
What can a self-professed “raging discontent” teach others about contentment? Turns out, quite a bit. Altrogge reminds us that the desire for contentment is part of the spiritual war in which we are constantly embroiled in (p. 18). The image of the “Greener Grass Conspiracy” is quite helpful in helping us see the things that fight against our contentment. Altrogge reminds us of the Scriptures’ teaching that the world, our hearts, and our enemy Satan are all working against our true and greatest happiness, joy in God (p. 12). It’s a theme and a point he makes clear throughout the book.
I appreciated Altrogge’s unflagging commitment to Jesus Christ as the means and the end of our pursuit of true joy and contentment. Jesus Christ is clearly presented as our ultimate hope. The Gospel is presented and the Scriptures are held up as God’s promises, and our weapons in the fight for contentment (p.94).
A Fun Read
Altrogge is funny. His seemingly effortless wit shines through in literally every page of this book. The use of self-effacing humor and transparency helps the reader to see the experiences and effects of discontentment in Altrogge’s own life. The humor has another effect, it disarms the reader, allowing the reader to see the irrational discontentment in their own lives; at least that was experience of this reviewer.
A Deep Read
This is a relatively short book, but don’t be fooled by its brevity, or by Altrogge’s levity. There is much to consider as you read this book. Altrogge begins the journey to contentment by probing the question, “What makes us unhappy?” The “if-only” things in our lives become the idols in which we seek contentment. The “if-only” things are insufficient for long and lasting happiness because those things were never intended to bring us contentment. It boils down to an issue of worship (p. 36). We often worship the wrong things. Often, it is an idol our very own hearts have manufactured. We were made for God, to worship Him, to relate to Him, enjoy Him.
Contentment is learned. Paul is held up as a human example of one who learned contentment (Phil. 4:11-12). Despite all the miserable experiences Paul endured, contentment was his. In times of betrayal, imprisonment, physical danger, and in material deprivation, Paul was able to remain contentment because his happiness was not tied to his circumstances. This is what Altrogge aims to teach us: to find contentment in knowing that our every spiritual need has been met in Jesus (p. 20).
Altrogge takes us through the Scriptures, and he points out the dangers of discontentment, and more importantly, the blasphemous nature of it. Discontment based on our circumstances leads to complaining which turns us into blasphemers who dishonor God by bringing His goodness into question (pp. 108-110). I doubt many of us chronic complainers have considered the insidious nature of our discontentment, and its fruit, but Altrogge lovingly and tenderly helps us to see it. The goal of this mini-tome is to help the reader see that true contentment is grounded in eternally joyful God, Himself (p. 30).
More Than A Read
This book is a strong practical help for those who are willing to make application of the truths presented by Altrogge. In Chapter 6 the Gospel of Jesus Christ is presented with clarity and power. Believers and unbelievers alike will benefit from this chapter, as the blessings of the Gospel are shown as precious jewels. Chapter 7 shows the necessity of “learning” contentment. It does not come naturally, but God uses good times and bad times to help us to learn to be content at all times. Chapter 8 holds up Jesus Christ as the source of power in the fight for joy. Chapter 9 shows how sinful it is be discontent with what God provides. Chapter 10 encourages us to literally “count our blessings” as a weapon in the war for joy In Chapter 11 the author walks us through finding contentment in suffering through developing a deeper understanding for, connection with, and dependence on God through Jesus Christ. In Chapter 12 the author nails the landing with the long-term perspective of the believer’s complete and unhindered joy in heaven. We can be content now, even though we long for more, because we know that a time is coming when all of our longings will be fulfilled, in a way we can’t even begin to comprehend.
I love the addition of the “STOP-THINK-DO” questions found at the conclusion of each chapter. The questions are masterfully posed to help the reader truly digest what the author has asserted. The questions were helpful for me personally, but I think this also makes this book a ready-made curriculum for small-group, a reading club or accountability relationships.
Conclusion
I first became aware of Stephen Altrogge on Twitter. I knew of his father’s ministry with Sovereign Grace, and I decided to follow him. Since then I have enjoyed his quirky humor in 140 character chunks. I was glad to hear he had written a book. Now, I am glad to have read this book. As a local church pastor, I would love to see my congregation read and apply this book to their lives.
Disclaimer: Crossway has offered a free copy of this book to me in exchange for my promise to read and publicly review the work. The publisher has exercised no influence over this review, given no compensation or promise thereof. I was asked that the review be honest and substantive.
Author: Stephen Altrogge
What can a self-professed “raging discontent” teach others about contentment? Turns out, quite a bit. Altrogge reminds us that the desire for contentment is part of the spiritual war in which we are constantly embroiled in (p. 18). The image of the “Greener Grass Conspiracy” is quite helpful in helping us see the things that fight against our contentment. Altrogge reminds us of the Scriptures’ teaching that the world, our hearts, and our enemy Satan are all working against our true and greatest happiness, joy in God (p. 12). It’s a theme and a point he makes clear throughout the book.
I appreciated Altrogge’s unflagging commitment to Jesus Christ as the means and the end of our pursuit of true joy and contentment. Jesus Christ is clearly presented as our ultimate hope. The Gospel is presented and the Scriptures are held up as God’s promises, and our weapons in the fight for contentment (p.94).
A Fun Read
Altrogge is funny. His seemingly effortless wit shines through in literally every page of this book. The use of self-effacing humor and transparency helps the reader to see the experiences and effects of discontentment in Altrogge’s own life. The humor has another effect, it disarms the reader, allowing the reader to see the irrational discontentment in their own lives; at least that was experience of this reviewer.
A Deep Read
This is a relatively short book, but don’t be fooled by its brevity, or by Altrogge’s levity. There is much to consider as you read this book. Altrogge begins the journey to contentment by probing the question, “What makes us unhappy?” The “if-only” things in our lives become the idols in which we seek contentment. The “if-only” things are insufficient for long and lasting happiness because those things were never intended to bring us contentment. It boils down to an issue of worship (p. 36). We often worship the wrong things. Often, it is an idol our very own hearts have manufactured. We were made for God, to worship Him, to relate to Him, enjoy Him.
Contentment is learned. Paul is held up as a human example of one who learned contentment (Phil. 4:11-12). Despite all the miserable experiences Paul endured, contentment was his. In times of betrayal, imprisonment, physical danger, and in material deprivation, Paul was able to remain contentment because his happiness was not tied to his circumstances. This is what Altrogge aims to teach us: to find contentment in knowing that our every spiritual need has been met in Jesus (p. 20).
Altrogge takes us through the Scriptures, and he points out the dangers of discontentment, and more importantly, the blasphemous nature of it. Discontment based on our circumstances leads to complaining which turns us into blasphemers who dishonor God by bringing His goodness into question (pp. 108-110). I doubt many of us chronic complainers have considered the insidious nature of our discontentment, and its fruit, but Altrogge lovingly and tenderly helps us to see it. The goal of this mini-tome is to help the reader see that true contentment is grounded in eternally joyful God, Himself (p. 30).
More Than A Read
This book is a strong practical help for those who are willing to make application of the truths presented by Altrogge. In Chapter 6 the Gospel of Jesus Christ is presented with clarity and power. Believers and unbelievers alike will benefit from this chapter, as the blessings of the Gospel are shown as precious jewels. Chapter 7 shows the necessity of “learning” contentment. It does not come naturally, but God uses good times and bad times to help us to learn to be content at all times. Chapter 8 holds up Jesus Christ as the source of power in the fight for joy. Chapter 9 shows how sinful it is be discontent with what God provides. Chapter 10 encourages us to literally “count our blessings” as a weapon in the war for joy In Chapter 11 the author walks us through finding contentment in suffering through developing a deeper understanding for, connection with, and dependence on God through Jesus Christ. In Chapter 12 the author nails the landing with the long-term perspective of the believer’s complete and unhindered joy in heaven. We can be content now, even though we long for more, because we know that a time is coming when all of our longings will be fulfilled, in a way we can’t even begin to comprehend.
I love the addition of the “STOP-THINK-DO” questions found at the conclusion of each chapter. The questions are masterfully posed to help the reader truly digest what the author has asserted. The questions were helpful for me personally, but I think this also makes this book a ready-made curriculum for small-group, a reading club or accountability relationships.
Conclusion
I first became aware of Stephen Altrogge on Twitter. I knew of his father’s ministry with Sovereign Grace, and I decided to follow him. Since then I have enjoyed his quirky humor in 140 character chunks. I was glad to hear he had written a book. Now, I am glad to have read this book. As a local church pastor, I would love to see my congregation read and apply this book to their lives.
Disclaimer: Crossway has offered a free copy of this book to me in exchange for my promise to read and publicly review the work. The publisher has exercised no influence over this review, given no compensation or promise thereof. I was asked that the review be honest and substantive.
June 9, 2018
Solid biblical exploration of contentment
Stephen Altrogge has a great sense of humor. He also has an excellent grasp of Scripture. Questions at the end are helpful. Illustrations are relevant. Great practical insights. The only weakness was that certain examples were overly repeated, like the woman frustrated by singleness. I recommend this book. The topic is important.
Stephen Altrogge has a great sense of humor. He also has an excellent grasp of Scripture. Questions at the end are helpful. Illustrations are relevant. Great practical insights. The only weakness was that certain examples were overly repeated, like the woman frustrated by singleness. I recommend this book. The topic is important.
November 24, 2023
Definitely the book I'll be recommending with regard to contentment - hilarious throughout, some very convicting points of theology, and some refreshing exegesis. As its written at a popular level there is an intended limit to the depth of exploration with the issue of contentment, with some questions not answered or even explored. That said, I enjoyed it - well, truthfully, I didn't enjoy it; it was far too close to home and convicting.
January 9, 2022
Convicting book on the subject of contentment. God has blessed me with so many blessings, especially the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ! Each breath is a gift. May I live a life of gratitude and thankfulness.
Want to read
April 19, 2019This was a fine book on contentment. I read this when I really needed it. I'd recommend it to anyone struggling with being discontent.
January 3, 2022
If your wanting to grow in contentment, read this book! You’ll walk away convicted at how much we buy into the greener grass conspiracy!
December 19, 2013
The apostle Paul told the Philippian church that he had discovered how to be content in all circumstances (Phil 4:11-12). How many of God’s children today lack Paul’s testimony? For so many of us, we want, we grumble, we wine, we complain, we become embittered as we show our lack of being content. Yet, if we were asked, we would all rather be happy than miserable and we would all generally admit that God is good. So, what can we do to battle for the kind of contentment that Paul claimed?
In The Greener Grass Conspiracy, ‘Stephen Altrogge looks with his readers at multiple aspects of living the contented Christian life. Altrogge writes with a winsome yet penetrating style. Paragraphs of this book will bring a laugh to the reader. Other places in the book will bring the sweet encouragement of God’s grace to light. Still other spots will cast a dagger of conviction directly into the soft spots of our idolatrous desires.
As Altrogge opens his look at biblical contentment, he starts with our God. God has created this world for himself, for his glory. All people exist for the person of God, not the other way round. Altrogge rightly shows us that our discontent stems from our failure to see that God, not man, is at the center and high point of the universe.
The author takes his readers through several scenarios to demonstrate the horror of being discontented as Christians. For example, in chapter 6, Altrogge reminds his readers that a proper focus on the gospel of Christ will bring joy. True joy will destroy our complaining. HE writes, “The only way to cut the nerve of complaining is to regularly and actively remember and savor and apply the gospel. Complaining doesn’t fare well in the soil of thankfulness, and the gospel should always propel us to deep gratitude” (Chapter 6 [sorry, I have no page numbers in my electronic file]). Similarly, in chapter 5, Altrogge shows us that a lack of contentment not only denies the joy of the gospel. But also the goodness of God in the gospel. There he writes, “God gave up what was most precious to him so that he could save sinners who hated him. If God was willing to do that, won’t he also give us every good thing that we need?”
Altrogge rightly presents to his readers that the source of our contentment as believers is an attitude of the heart. IF we trust God, grasp the gospel, look forward to heaven, remember the gifts we have been given, and remember the hell we deserve, we will grow more and more content. The truth is, a lack of contentment in our lives is quite often based on idolatry of the heart, a replacing of God with the gifts given by God.
Perhaps my favorite piece in this book was the author’s reminder that heaven is the place where we will find our contentment. Until we are with Christ in a world free from sin, we should not expect our lives to be smooth and easy. Yes, we have far more good than we could ever imagine. Yet, we must recognize that God created us for himself. God created us for eternity. God created us for the joy of worshipping him. We cannot possibly feel our souls totally satisfied until we experience what God created us for. In chapter 12, Altrogge makes this point by saying, “When we see Christ, we’ll realize that all our earthly longings were really longings to see and be with Christ. When we look upon Jesus, the battle for contentment will come to an end, and we’ll finally have all that we ever desired.” The author adds in the same chapter, “Throw away your ideas of a boring heaven with nothing to do. We’re going to be with our Creator, the one who invented gladness and created fun.”
I could go on for page after page pointing out the solid, powerful, joyful, and biblical counsel that Altrogge offers in The Greener Grass Conspiracy, but it would really be better for you if you picked up a copy of the book and read it for yourself. Even better would be for you to pick up a copy of the book, get some others to join you, and work through it together. This twelve chapter piece is so easy-to-read that almost any church member or Bible study friend will be able to read it with you. Each chapter has a useful set of questions at the end that will spur application and discussion. The book is not too long, and it's never dull.
Maybe it is because I needed a good solid reminder of God’s grace and my need to be content, maybe it is because I needed to hear again how ugly toward God is the complaining spirit, or maybe it is simply because this book is just a good book, but I very much enjoyed reading The Greener Grass Conspiracy. I would recommend it to believers with struggles and believers with plenty. I would recommend it to hurting pastors and happy mothers. Give this book a read, and see if perhaps God will convict you of complaining or help you to find joy in contentment.
Disclaimer: Crossway has offered a free copy of this book to me in exchange for reviewing the work. The publisher has exercised no influence over this review, simply asking that the review be honest and substantive.
In The Greener Grass Conspiracy, ‘Stephen Altrogge looks with his readers at multiple aspects of living the contented Christian life. Altrogge writes with a winsome yet penetrating style. Paragraphs of this book will bring a laugh to the reader. Other places in the book will bring the sweet encouragement of God’s grace to light. Still other spots will cast a dagger of conviction directly into the soft spots of our idolatrous desires.
As Altrogge opens his look at biblical contentment, he starts with our God. God has created this world for himself, for his glory. All people exist for the person of God, not the other way round. Altrogge rightly shows us that our discontent stems from our failure to see that God, not man, is at the center and high point of the universe.
The author takes his readers through several scenarios to demonstrate the horror of being discontented as Christians. For example, in chapter 6, Altrogge reminds his readers that a proper focus on the gospel of Christ will bring joy. True joy will destroy our complaining. HE writes, “The only way to cut the nerve of complaining is to regularly and actively remember and savor and apply the gospel. Complaining doesn’t fare well in the soil of thankfulness, and the gospel should always propel us to deep gratitude” (Chapter 6 [sorry, I have no page numbers in my electronic file]). Similarly, in chapter 5, Altrogge shows us that a lack of contentment not only denies the joy of the gospel. But also the goodness of God in the gospel. There he writes, “God gave up what was most precious to him so that he could save sinners who hated him. If God was willing to do that, won’t he also give us every good thing that we need?”
Altrogge rightly presents to his readers that the source of our contentment as believers is an attitude of the heart. IF we trust God, grasp the gospel, look forward to heaven, remember the gifts we have been given, and remember the hell we deserve, we will grow more and more content. The truth is, a lack of contentment in our lives is quite often based on idolatry of the heart, a replacing of God with the gifts given by God.
Perhaps my favorite piece in this book was the author’s reminder that heaven is the place where we will find our contentment. Until we are with Christ in a world free from sin, we should not expect our lives to be smooth and easy. Yes, we have far more good than we could ever imagine. Yet, we must recognize that God created us for himself. God created us for eternity. God created us for the joy of worshipping him. We cannot possibly feel our souls totally satisfied until we experience what God created us for. In chapter 12, Altrogge makes this point by saying, “When we see Christ, we’ll realize that all our earthly longings were really longings to see and be with Christ. When we look upon Jesus, the battle for contentment will come to an end, and we’ll finally have all that we ever desired.” The author adds in the same chapter, “Throw away your ideas of a boring heaven with nothing to do. We’re going to be with our Creator, the one who invented gladness and created fun.”
I could go on for page after page pointing out the solid, powerful, joyful, and biblical counsel that Altrogge offers in The Greener Grass Conspiracy, but it would really be better for you if you picked up a copy of the book and read it for yourself. Even better would be for you to pick up a copy of the book, get some others to join you, and work through it together. This twelve chapter piece is so easy-to-read that almost any church member or Bible study friend will be able to read it with you. Each chapter has a useful set of questions at the end that will spur application and discussion. The book is not too long, and it's never dull.
Maybe it is because I needed a good solid reminder of God’s grace and my need to be content, maybe it is because I needed to hear again how ugly toward God is the complaining spirit, or maybe it is simply because this book is just a good book, but I very much enjoyed reading The Greener Grass Conspiracy. I would recommend it to believers with struggles and believers with plenty. I would recommend it to hurting pastors and happy mothers. Give this book a read, and see if perhaps God will convict you of complaining or help you to find joy in contentment.
Disclaimer: Crossway has offered a free copy of this book to me in exchange for reviewing the work. The publisher has exercised no influence over this review, simply asking that the review be honest and substantive.
September 3, 2017
Recently I have been struggling with discontent. Discontent on waiting. Discontent on not having children yet. Discontent on not finding a house. Discontent with life. Whew! That is a lot of discontent.
Too much! Way too much! I do not want my life to be characterized by “a woman who was discontent, all the time.”
However, that is how I feel like I have been acting. I’ve been taking all the wonderful gifts that God has given me, and complained about them.
"Do you ever wonder how it’s possible to be so blessed and so unhappy at the same time? To live like kinds and behave like ungrateful pigs? To have more than any generation in history and yet still crave more?"
God has also been convicting me of this sin! I am so thankful for that. He is teaching me that no matter what my life looks like, He is still good and I am blessed beyond measure!
"Biblical contentment is not rooted in circumstances but in the infinitely stronger foundation of God himself."
This book will convict you. This book will make you realize that you are taking things for granted. Thinking to much about what could be, instead of what is right now, right here.
"This grand conspiracy of the world, Satan, and my heart is called the Greener Grass Conspiracy, Their objective? To have me always believing that the grass is greener somewhere else, always wishing that things were different, always dreaming of a brighter tomorrow without ever enjoying where God has me today."
If you are not ready to face your sin of discontent, then don’t read this book. However, if you are ready to be challenged on your perspective, then get this book right away!
I cannot recommend this book more! In this culture, with the attitude of “there’s always something better,” discontent is on the rise and people (me included) are attempting to find their joy in their circumstances instead of God.
This book will help you to fix your heart on the Truth and on the only thing that truly satisfies, God himself.
Slowly, I am moving from discontent to content. Frustration to understanding. Grief to joy. Myself to God in His glory and wonder.
Thanks again to Crossway Books for sending me a copy of The Greener Grass Conspiracy to read and review.
All above quotes are from the book, The Greener Grass Conspiracy.
Too much! Way too much! I do not want my life to be characterized by “a woman who was discontent, all the time.”
However, that is how I feel like I have been acting. I’ve been taking all the wonderful gifts that God has given me, and complained about them.
"Do you ever wonder how it’s possible to be so blessed and so unhappy at the same time? To live like kinds and behave like ungrateful pigs? To have more than any generation in history and yet still crave more?"
God has also been convicting me of this sin! I am so thankful for that. He is teaching me that no matter what my life looks like, He is still good and I am blessed beyond measure!
"Biblical contentment is not rooted in circumstances but in the infinitely stronger foundation of God himself."
This book will convict you. This book will make you realize that you are taking things for granted. Thinking to much about what could be, instead of what is right now, right here.
"This grand conspiracy of the world, Satan, and my heart is called the Greener Grass Conspiracy, Their objective? To have me always believing that the grass is greener somewhere else, always wishing that things were different, always dreaming of a brighter tomorrow without ever enjoying where God has me today."
If you are not ready to face your sin of discontent, then don’t read this book. However, if you are ready to be challenged on your perspective, then get this book right away!
I cannot recommend this book more! In this culture, with the attitude of “there’s always something better,” discontent is on the rise and people (me included) are attempting to find their joy in their circumstances instead of God.
This book will help you to fix your heart on the Truth and on the only thing that truly satisfies, God himself.
Slowly, I am moving from discontent to content. Frustration to understanding. Grief to joy. Myself to God in His glory and wonder.
Thanks again to Crossway Books for sending me a copy of The Greener Grass Conspiracy to read and review.
All above quotes are from the book, The Greener Grass Conspiracy.
July 6, 2012
It is unfortunate that we do not hear from the pulpit about contentment. Satan had tempted Adam and Eve with discontentment and today many of us if not all of us struggle with the same. It is a battle that we must fight to see the glory of God and we cannot when we live in discontentment. I was surprised by reading this study areas of discontentment that I did'nt even know I had. Discontentment begins when I start trying to be God or when I displace God from his rule and reign (page 24). Something to think about, however, this book is to encourage the believer to live a life of contentment and it begins with a right understanding of who God is. When we have a right understanding of the Gospel, then we are compelled and learn contentment. Something else to think about, contentment is learned by suffering (page 78). Do not waste your sufferings. Because of Christ, we can grow in contentment thru promises, prayer and others and the result is a deeper relationship with Christ. The sad truth, when we are discontent, our relationship with Christ stalls. I think it is important and I think this was brought out in the book as well, their is a false and a true contentment. False is when we are content by everything else and true is when our contentment is from Christ alone.
March 14, 2012
Full review can be found at my blog.
This book is an easy read with a great message. I would encourage you to read it if you are always feeling like you want more. I think, however, this book is really missing the call to take what you do have more than you need and use it for the good of others. It's there, but it's not really the focus. If you are struggling with wanting more and not having enough, this book is a great reminder of what God has done for you, but once you've read this book, you need to remember that the step after contentment is generosity. If you've taken Dave Ramsey's FPU, you should remember what the last lesson is. Dave Ramsey teaches how to live like no one else so that you can give like no one else. When you have learned to be content with what God has given you its not hard to take the next step and be generous with what God has blessed you with.
This book is an easy read with a great message. I would encourage you to read it if you are always feeling like you want more. I think, however, this book is really missing the call to take what you do have more than you need and use it for the good of others. It's there, but it's not really the focus. If you are struggling with wanting more and not having enough, this book is a great reminder of what God has done for you, but once you've read this book, you need to remember that the step after contentment is generosity. If you've taken Dave Ramsey's FPU, you should remember what the last lesson is. Dave Ramsey teaches how to live like no one else so that you can give like no one else. When you have learned to be content with what God has given you its not hard to take the next step and be generous with what God has blessed you with.
February 5, 2013
Altrogge tackles the subject of contentment in "Greener Grass..." asking the questions of where we don't find out contentment, where we do, and how to get from point A to point B.
Being a young man, he freely admits that he hasn't had much time to encounter many of the difficulties that may create more contentment in life that comes from trusting God through those things, but he still tackles the subject with a maturity that I appreciated.
He also confesses that just because he's writing a book on contentment, that doesn't mean he's great at being content in all circumstances himself. The advantage to this is that is creates a more reliable and relatable "narrator" for the book.
I led a men's group at my church through this book, and it not only created some great discussion on a week to week basis, but the writing style was easy to read and process. If you're looking for a good modern look at contentment and how to grow in it, I'd recommend this one.
Being a young man, he freely admits that he hasn't had much time to encounter many of the difficulties that may create more contentment in life that comes from trusting God through those things, but he still tackles the subject with a maturity that I appreciated.
He also confesses that just because he's writing a book on contentment, that doesn't mean he's great at being content in all circumstances himself. The advantage to this is that is creates a more reliable and relatable "narrator" for the book.
I led a men's group at my church through this book, and it not only created some great discussion on a week to week basis, but the writing style was easy to read and process. If you're looking for a good modern look at contentment and how to grow in it, I'd recommend this one.
March 5, 2016
See my profile for my star rating system. Thank you to Crossway books for allowing me to read a digital galley of the book for review.
I applaud this book.
With practical insight and helpful tools Altrogge writes of the conspiracy. Writing as one who is fighting for the truth he says, “This book is not the memoir of a contented man.”
With honest reflections and Biblical wisdom The Greener Grass Conspiracy exposes Satan’s lies and challenges us to really consider that it is possible to have abundant life in Christ right where we are today.
I think this is a book that every Christian should read and re-read. None of the information is new, it is age old wisdom from the Word of God itself, yet explored with humor and personal example in a modern and culturally relevant way, the truths found within may just change your life.
I applaud this book.
With practical insight and helpful tools Altrogge writes of the conspiracy. Writing as one who is fighting for the truth he says, “This book is not the memoir of a contented man.”
With honest reflections and Biblical wisdom The Greener Grass Conspiracy exposes Satan’s lies and challenges us to really consider that it is possible to have abundant life in Christ right where we are today.
I think this is a book that every Christian should read and re-read. None of the information is new, it is age old wisdom from the Word of God itself, yet explored with humor and personal example in a modern and culturally relevant way, the truths found within may just change your life.
November 21, 2016
Stephen Altrogge's The Greener Grass Conspiracy is a book about contentment. Or better, a book about the lack of it. The chapters are well laid out for a survey on the Bible's teaching on this subject, and there are helpful reflection questions at the end of each chapter, which make the book useful for small groups.
But overall, I thought the design of the book outdid the execution. Until the last few chapters which delved more deeply into suffering and disappointment, I felt the book grazed along the surface. Or maybe it was more context. The illustrations and anecdotes seemed to assume a well off, white middle class experience. Maybe I would have felt differently if the final chapters were moved earlier in the book, or if parts of those chapters were trickled in throughout.
That said, there were some moments that both challenged me and moved me.
But overall, I thought the design of the book outdid the execution. Until the last few chapters which delved more deeply into suffering and disappointment, I felt the book grazed along the surface. Or maybe it was more context. The illustrations and anecdotes seemed to assume a well off, white middle class experience. Maybe I would have felt differently if the final chapters were moved earlier in the book, or if parts of those chapters were trickled in throughout.
That said, there were some moments that both challenged me and moved me.
September 23, 2014
Such a good book. I really appreciate the practicality of the authors writing and his ability to make the information and is so accessible. I definately recommend this book. I don't think it's only for those having trouble finding contentment, but also for those who are content, but want to glorify God even more in their situation.
This book is not a hard read at all, but it took me so long because of competing priorities, i.e. Family, work, college, etc. In the other hand, this is not a book to just breeze through...you want to be sure to catch what it being said
I've already picked up his other book and I'm looking forward to fitting into it.
This book is not a hard read at all, but it took me so long because of competing priorities, i.e. Family, work, college, etc. In the other hand, this is not a book to just breeze through...you want to be sure to catch what it being said
I've already picked up his other book and I'm looking forward to fitting into it.
February 2, 2012
This conspiracy of the greener grass is a device of our own sin, the world and the devil, and is a mortal danger for Christians and non-Christians alike. Stephen Altrogge's goal in The Greener Grass Conspiracy is to wake us up to the seriousness of the conspiracy's intention: to blind us to the source of true contentment, and cause us to search after cheap imitations that will never satisfy. Stephen Altrogge writes a fresh reminder of some timeless truths: that searching for contentment in anything other than God and the Gospel will fail us.
May 11, 2014
I thought this was a helpful and practical, well written book that examines idolatry and the human heart. Altrogge is funny and readers should identify well with him. This book is particularly timely in that it addresses a current issue in our churches and society which is the need for more. I would definitely give this book to a church member and would encourage a Sunday school class or small group to read through it.
December 13, 2015
When I was reading the relationship book I felt like it was missing something and I guess this book address what is missing. I think the book started off strong with humor and examples. But when it got close to then end it kinda just went full on preaching mode which is fine ... But it felt like there was a lot of filler when there was not as much in the beginning... Over all i would Re read this if I had the time
December 14, 2016
One of my favorite books that I have read in the past 10 years. It worked me over, challenging my heart in the arena of contentment, but didn't just leave me sulking in how discontent I am, but gave me hope that, like every other sin, with Christ, there is victory. I highly, highly recommend this short, easy to read book. Read it slowly. Draw out specific things that you need to work on and begin to do the work. Excellent book.
September 28, 2013
Though not as in-depth as The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment, The Greener Grass Conspiracy is a worthy read and perfect to digest when in the middle of a battle with discontentment and the mind isn't easily able to tackle the Puritans. I had a few quibbles with Altrogge at times, but his engaging writing and sound theology made this an amazing read and one I highly recommend.
January 29, 2014
A good reminder, nothing really new but there were a few quotes I highlighted and will look back on. The first half I felt like more addressed the heart of the issue which I liked, the second half up till the last chapter more just attacked the emotions (to use a Tim Keller phrase) and wasn't as helpful
May 4, 2014
Well-written, biblical, practical. Not terribly deep but a good basic book on the subject. I would have found this easier to read and grasp as a young Christian, fifty years ago when my pastor had me cut my teeth on Jeremiah Burroughs' classic The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment ( which I am re-reading now).
April 27, 2011
My review of The Greener Grass Conspiracy is online here:
http://www.bloggingtheologically.com/...
(note, it features a video and paper goatees)
http://www.bloggingtheologically.com/...
(note, it features a video and paper goatees)
March 15, 2015
An easy-to-read, candid, and occasionally amusing reflection on what it means for Christians to be content. Even those who don't share this author's sense of humour may find that he hits them where they live.
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