By: Juliet Constantine

And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth. (Luke 12:15)
 

It was one of the Ten Commandments that were specifically engraved on those tables of stones that should serve as a guide for a happy life. Yet, in-spite-of the blessings adherence held; humans so cultured in sin, still continue to disregard its guidance and plunge headstrong into similar sins of many who had gone on before. Covetousness is one of those sins that do not have a face but its fruits cannot be hid. Its effects are devastating and its impact far reaching. History holds countless recordings of the resulting effect of this poisonous fruit, yet it does not deter many others from partaking of its juices which is sweet to the taste but bitter in the stomach.

It was covetousness why sin began in Heaven; then plunged our world into the abyss of degradation and death; that led to Korham and Abriam being swallowed up by the earth; that turned a good prophet into a hunger fame seeking wizard; that led to the curse of the sword against David’s house; that led to Nabal’s demise; and Judas betrayal. There are many more examples in the Bible. Yes, it is covetousness that filled the heart of a man to know his neighbor’s wife and willfully take things that belong to another. Covetousness led to the sin of adultery – one of the main ingredients in broken homes. We are admonished not to covet anything that belongs to our neighbors. Unlike many of the other commands that gave a reason for resulting disobedience, we do not need one for covetousness-its fruits are there for all to see.

Paul admonished us to “beware of covetousness”. He also encouraged us to be content with whatever state we find ourselves. Not that we are to be Christians lacking ambition, but we are to not to let covetousness be the motivating force behind us achieving.

Such was the situation for Balaam. In his quest for fame and fortune he ignored the will of God. He knew what was expected of him; yet he thought he could bribe God; hence his instruction to Balak’s enquirers. He got the chance to stand for God; yet because of covetousness in his heart, he tried to find a way around it. God eventually stepped aside to let Balaam act out his true intention. Had God not controlled what came from Balaam’s lips, the sorcerer would’ve been a happy camper returning home with his bags of riches. His greed for gain blinded his eyes mind to the unpardonable sin he had committed. He defied God’s will.

There’s no need to seek God’s will when you already know what it is. It is blasphemy to know the right and still do the wrong; believing that God’s grace and mercy lingers. When your actions are contrary to what God said, there’s no need to try to get God to change his mind, to lower his standard. God does not change His mind. He stands by His words. “The soul that sinneth, it shall die.” (Ezekiel 18:20)

Like Judas, Balaam’s covetousness led him down the path of no return. Even after returning home, discontent filled his heart on the riches he could have gained, hadn’t God controlled his speech. He was bent on having the riches he so desires – even if it meant going against God’s will. You see friend, when we are bent on sinning, God will step aside and allow you to do as you please. The Spirit of God does not always strive with man. To his own eternal loss, Balaam, once a prophet of God, is forever loss to the riches of eternity. Don’t be like Balaam or Judas. Beware of covetousness!

Dear Father, thank You for the reminder that rebellion against Your will is certain doom for us. Please help us to be content and to seek Your will above our own. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Copyrighted by Juliet Constantine 2014 (for “Alone With God – Finding Jesus In The Scriptures” Daily Devotional)