Sermon: Shall Not Covet

Scripture Text: Exodus 20:1-17

Quotes for Reflection

Kevin D. Young, The Ten Commandments
There’s nothing necessarily wrong with noticing what other people have, but most of us don’t stop and notice so that we can give thanks to God for his blessings to others. We notice and then stop being thankful for all that God has given to us.

The Westminster Larger Catechism
The duties required in the tenth commandment are, such a full contentment with our own condition, and such a charitable frame of the whole soul toward our neighbor, as that all our inward motions and affections touching him, tend unto, and further all that good which is his.

Mary Oliver, The Gift
Be still, my soul, and steadfast.
Earth and heaven both are still watching
though time is draining from the clock
and your walk, that was confident and quick,
has become slow.

So, be slow if you must, but let
the heart still play its true part.
Love still as once you loved, deeply
and without patience. Let God and the world
know you are grateful. That the gift has been given.

Application Questions

1. How does the Christian vision of longing differ from other worldviews?

2. If I only had ___________, I would finally be happy. What’s in that blank and what does it truly reveal?

3. What’s one simple habit of gratitude that helps you feel more content with God when you’re feeling restless or wanting more?