Covetousness

"Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”  Hebrews 13:5  NKJV

In a footnote in The Spirit Filled Life Bible, it reads: 

'Covetousness and financial fear are overcome by a contentment founded on the assurance of God's constant presence and the promises He extends to us to supply our daily needs.'

We should never fall to the level of covetousness, it is totally not of God. He is our supplier and, He knows what is good for us. Let us look at what it actually means. I wrote this note some years ago in my bible and it goes like this:  'Covetousness includes seeking personal recognition and wanting power over others. It can be the need to be the centre of attention and craving for what other people have - house, wealth, wife, husband, car, job and success, to describe a few things. It can include being ungrateful for what God has given us. Moaning and grumbling and never being satisfied. We need to be content; what God has given us in Jesus is far better. 

God becomes angry when we are ungrateful, for example 'He gave them their request but sent leanness upon them' (Psalm 106:15 / Numbers 11:16-21). If your goals are God-centred, He helps us to achieve them. But if you're asking Him for something just because your neighbour has it, you'll be disappointed'.

It can be natural to look at what other people have and want it yourself, especially if they're driving around in a brand new sports car and you have to make do with an old banger. The same as entering someone else's home and seeing all the mod-cons that they have and returning to your own small place that is practically falling down. The thing is, life goes in seasons and the act of gratefulness to God for what He has given you is all you need. Who knows, you may be living in a nice home and driving around in a sports car this time next year. It's possible, but you won't get this by lusting after what someone else has.

The thing is, what you have is what God has given you. Don't covet what someone else has, speak with God about what you would like. Then leave it with Him. If this is in His plan for your life, you will get it, if not just be grateful for what you do have. 

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now:

Lord Jesus, I have sinned   

I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today.

In Jesus' Name. Amen'

Copyright 2024 Grahame Howard.                                

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