The 10th Commandment

When we read the 10 commandments and teach them to our children I think we sometimes overlook number 10.  I am so very guilty of number 10.  I look around and see so many things I want to have, that I wish I had, that I wonder why God won't give me. Sometimes they are literally things and sometimes they are circumstances but regardless, I am coveting.

This conviction has been ever present lately.  It is present when I long to be closer to my family and am envious of my siblings that do live closer.  It is present when I hear of others getting a raise.  It is present when I hear of or even see women who are expecting a new baby (yes, I know I have 5...I just wish I could have more).  It is PRESENT...

And yet, and yet God is calling me to something greater than covetousness.  He is calling me into contentment. 

 Philippians 4:11 
"Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content" 


Hebrews 13:5
"Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

1 Timothy 6:6-8
"But godliness with contentment is great gain for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content."

I desire to be content.  Even more than I desire contentment I desire JESUS.  I want more of HIM.  I believe that covetousness is just a symptom of needing more of Jesus.  When my eyes lose sight of Him they focus on things.  Covetousness is a reminder to refocus, to realign.  It is a reminder to pick of my Bible and talk to my Savior, to my best friend.  

I wish it were that simple.  I wish I had this one figured out, conquered.  But then I wouldn't need grace, and I wouldn't need forgiveness.  But I do need grace and I do need forgiveness.  I serve this amazing God who loves me even when...and yet He is calling me to be better.  To be more like Him.  To be able to say, "No, I don't have it all, I have JESUS and He is better than anything this world could offer.  He is better than a house in Indiana, better than an increase in income, better than a 6th child.  He is the Best this world has to offer."