Covertness
You shall not covet . . .
Exodus 20:17
The tenth commandment may seem like an add-on compared to such big-ticket items as murder, stealing, lying, and adultery, but it is foundational to all the other commandments and ensures peace and contentment. It is the only command that zooms in on a forbidden attitude rather than an action. Yet it is a safeguard against the temptation to break the other nine commandments.
For example, David’s covetous desire for another man’s wife led to adultery, stealing, murder and lying (2 Sam 11). And a desire for more and more pleasure, power, or possessions can destroy family relationships and cause us to lie to others. And because covetousness is idolatry (Col 3:5), it also keeps us from having and maintaining a right relationship to God.
Lord, help us to be content in You
Read
Exodus 20:17.
Prayer
Father, Lord, help us to be content in You. In Jesus name. Amen.
Amen