Troublesome Case

Mark 15:10 English Standard Version (ESV) For he perceived that it was out of envy that the chief priests had delivered him up.

When we covet another’s position we tend to be envious of them and in so doing treat them unjustly.

The larger issue with envy is that by coveting those things that belong to another it effects how we treat one another. Envy disturbs relationships in ways that are subtle and mask the underlying cause. We can fain friendship but our heart is not right with them or our Lord.

We will become critical of that person, questioning why they should be deserving and why we are not. It will lead to quarrels and division within the church.

Romans 12:3 English Standard Version (ESV) For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.

Paul would not have warned us of this behavior if it were not already found within the body of Christ.

Psalm 139:23-24 English Standard Version

23 Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts!
24 And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!

Add to this prayer the strength to accept what God reveals and allow His Word to change our hearts and minds.

While this covet is troublesome to the Lord it is not so far afield of a better covet which brings into focus the service gifts of which this covet is closely related yet handled improperly.

Next the better covet.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *