I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. (Philippians 4:11b, NIV)
Several years ago, I heard a story about Gary Player and Davis Love III’s dad, Davis Love II. They were roommates traveling together on the PGA Tour when they were away from their families.
After a practice round on greens rolling at Mach I, Davis II returned to the room and told Gary that those were the fastest greens he had ever putted on. Gary replied, “I know, isn’t it great! All you have to do is line it up and get it rolling, and it’s going in the hole.”
The following week, they played on greens so slow that you had to ensure the putter head was securely attached, or it might come loose from the impact needed to make a 5-footer.
Again, Davis II returned to the room and said, “Good grief, Gary, these are the slowest greens I’ve ever putted on in my life!” “Yes, they are, and that’s perfect! All you have to do is just line it up and smack it right in the hole.”
Thoroughly confused, Davis II asked, “What’s the deal, Gary? Do you like fast greens or slow greens?” Gary replied, “Davis, I like whatever I am putting on!”
Life as a follower of Jesus sometimes feels like putting on greens, smooth, fast, and true, with the putts filling up the cup. Other days, they’re bumpy, slow, unpredictable, and two-footers miss by a mile.
No matter what course we find ourselves playing, we are called to walk in contentment and joy, not because of the conditions, but because of the One who walks with us.
The Apostle Paul, writing from prison, shared the profound secret of contentment: it’s not found in favorable circumstances, but in a faithful Savior. “I know what it is to be in need,” he said, “and I know what it is to have plenty… I can do all this through him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:12-13).
His joy wasn’t based on circumstances. His peace and joy came from being anchored (content) in Jesus, not in the temporary conditions around him.
We may have walked through seasons of abundance — good health, strong relationships, financial stability — and at other times it might feel like everything is working against us.
But when Christ is our focus, our joy doesn’t have to waver with the terrain.
Jesus doesn’t promise us perfect circumstances; He promises us Himself. And that changes everything. When we walk the fairways of life with Him, we learn that joy isn’t the product of ideal conditions — it’s the fruit of a connected heart. It grows when we trust His presence, His provision, and His purpose, even when the green is tough to read.
So today, whatever you’re putting on or living in, choose joy. Choose contentment. Not a fake smile or forced optimism, but a deep, steady confidence that comes from knowing Jesus is your Savior and your Shepherd. He is enough. And one day, all will be made right.
Ask Him to help you be present where you are. Let go of wishing for a different green, a different season, a different pace. Embrace what is set before you, with all its mystery and challenges, knowing that His grace is sufficient, and His joy runs deeper than your struggles.
Let’s learn to accept them — even celebrate them — with Jesus by our side, we’ll find that joy doesn’t come from sinking every putt, but from walking every hole with Him.
Prayer: Father, teach me to be content, no matter where I am, whether playing golf or enduring life. Amen