As we wrap up our series on the Ten Commandments, it’s evident that the final commandment serves as a perfect capstone to this moral code. The Ten Commandments, foundational to both Jewish and Christian ethics, provide a comprehensive guide to living a righteous life. Each commandment builds upon the others, and by adhering to the final commandment—to not covet—we find a key to maintaining the spirit of the entire law. If we can master this command, it will significantly aid us in following the rest of the commandments.

Today, we focus on the commandment: "Thou shalt not covet" (Exodus 20:17). Coveting is more than just wanting something; it’s an intense, often uncontrollable desire that leads us to act in ways that violate other commandments. As we explore this commandment, we’ll see how it can lead us to a more contented life by following the guidance found in Hebrews 13:5, which tells us, "Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have."

Understanding Covetousness

To covet means to desire something intensely and often unlawfully. The Hebrew word for covet, Hamad, translates to taking pleasure in or desiring passionately. This intense longing can drive us to commit acts against other commandments, such as dishonoring our parents or stealing. For instance, Achan’s story in the Bible illustrates how his desire for the spoils of Jericho led to his downfall and the suffering of his people (Joshua 7:21). The sin of covetousness is dangerous and destructive, ultimately leading to severe consequences.

Be Careful What You Love

Hebrews 13:5 advises us to avoid covetousness and instead focus on what we love. The first step is to reject worldly lusts. Our society often equates happiness with material possessions, but true love and fulfillment come from pursuing what God values.

Love What God Loves:

• People: God’s love is evident in His sacrifices, especially through Jesus Christ. We should strive to love others as God loves us.
• Righteousness: God values righteousness and loves those who pursue it. We are called to seek righteousness in our own lives.
• Giving: God loves generosity. Instead of hoarding possessions, we should focus on helping others and meeting their needs.

Be Content With What You Have

Contentment is the antithesis of covetousness. To develop contentment, we should:

• Develop Gratitude: Recognize and appreciate what God has already provided. A heart full of gratitude can counteract desires for more.
• Delay Gratification: Practice self-control. Avoid giving in to immediate desires, whether for material goods or other pleasures.
• Don’t Grudge: Avoid comparing ourselves to others. This comparison only breeds dissatisfaction and resentment.
• Desire God: Focus on God and the blessings He provides. A relationship with God offers true fulfillment and peace.

Realize You Have All You Need

Finally, realize that you have everything you need in Christ. Hebrews 13:5 assures us that God will never leave nor forsake us. Material possessions are fleeting, but the presence and promises of Christ are eternal. Understanding this helps us to live a more contented life and recognize the true treasure we have.

Dr. Russell Cornwell’s story of Ali Hafed vividly illustrates this point. Ali Hafed, a wealthy Persian farmer, lived a comfortable life with a thriving farm and a loving family. However, when an old priest told him about the incredible value of diamonds, Hafed became obsessed with the idea of finding these precious stones. He sold his farm, left his family, and embarked on a quest across Palestine and beyond, seeking diamonds. Tragically, he never found any and ended his days in despair.

Meanwhile, the new owner of Hafed’s farm discovered a shimmering black rock in a stream on the very land Hafed had sold. This rock, initially dismissed as just a curious find, was later identified as a diamond. The farm turned out to be the Golconda Diamond Mine, one of the richest diamond sources of that era. The very treasures Hafed had been seeking were right under his feet all along.

This story parallels the Prodigal Son, who left his father’s house in search of greater riches and adventure, only to return and find that true contentment and abundance were waiting for him at home. Like Hafed and the Prodigal Son, we often overlook the spiritual riches we possess in Christ, chasing after fleeting material desires. We must learn to cherish and appreciate the true treasure we have right where we are.