12/15- 10 Commandments 9, 10- Do not lie,
do not covet
Read: “You shall not lie against your
neighbor. You shall not covet whatever
your neighbor has.”
“Speak the truth in love.” (Ephesians 4:15); Herod said, “Tell me where He is that is born that I may worship Him…but Herod intended to kill the child.” (Matt. 2:8,13)
“Speak the truth in love.” (Ephesians 4:15); Herod said, “Tell me where He is that is born that I may worship Him…but Herod intended to kill the child.” (Matt. 2:8,13)
Thoughts: The actual command says, “You
shall not bear false witness against your neighbor” meaning you shall not say
something that is untrue- especially under an oath or in the presence of
authorities. The positive side of it is
God wants us to tell the truth. God
created reality- the truth. He wants us
to appreciate the reality that we have.
This also means not making ourselves look good by putting other people
down. The Bible also says, “Speak the
truth in love.” This means speak the
truth at the right time and in a kind way.
The Bible also tells us not to “covet.” This means to not want something in an absorbing way that someone else has. It is similar to being greedy- living for things, toys, stuff instead of living for God. We should try to avoid wanting too much stuff. Maybe you have seen some of the hoarder shows (a hoarder is someone who has so much stuff they cannot get around in their house). Most of their stuff is useless, but they cannot get rid of anything. One of the best way to fight covetousness is to be generous, giving things to people in need. Honest giving is much better than dishonest greed. We know this, but we need God;s; grace and help to live it. Jesus did live an honest and generous life.
The Bible also tells us not to “covet.” This means to not want something in an absorbing way that someone else has. It is similar to being greedy- living for things, toys, stuff instead of living for God. We should try to avoid wanting too much stuff. Maybe you have seen some of the hoarder shows (a hoarder is someone who has so much stuff they cannot get around in their house). Most of their stuff is useless, but they cannot get rid of anything. One of the best way to fight covetousness is to be generous, giving things to people in need. Honest giving is much better than dishonest greed. We know this, but we need God;s; grace and help to live it. Jesus did live an honest and generous life.
Activity: Think about what you can give to
the Children’s Consignment Sale of Rummage Sale at the church. This is a way to turn your old stuff into
doing God’s work.
[Giving Tree gifts at LMPC for the needy]
Prayer: Lord,
help me to be an honest person that people can count on. Help me to be honest with myself and to be
content with what I have and generous toward others.
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