Pathway to Contentment: Effects of Covetousness – Part 3

The word “Covetous” is not a bad word; it depends on the context of its use, and the direction in which it is targeted. Where there is no contentment, discontentment will rule (consider it). The Bible counsels against covetousness, and Paul states this clearly when he says, “For the love of money [that is, the greedy desire for it and the willingness to gain it unethically] is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves [through and through] with many sorrows. But as for you, O man of God, flee from these things; aim at and pursue righteousness [true goodness, moral conformity to the character of God], godliness [the fear of God], faith, love, steadfastness, and gentleness…” Read 1 Timothy 6:11-12 (AMP). In other words, Paul is saying for us to run from these greedy desires.

The Bible is very clear on why we should flee from greedy desires; and we would use the scriptures to identify some of the effects of not fleeing from covetousness:

• DIS-EASE: a sense of worrying, and a physical sense of weariness because we work harder and harder to get more. And when this more does not come as one expects, frustration, un-ease sets in; and in some cases can affect one’s health. The Bible says, “Don’t wear yourself out trying to get rich. Be wise enough to know when to quit. In the blink of an eye wealth disappears, for it will sprout wings and fly away like an eagle.” Read Proverbs 23:4-5 (NLT). Another scriptural evidence to help us understand why pursuing money can be unhealthy is found in Psalm 127:2 (NLT), “It is useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat; for God gives rest to his loved ones. Dearly beloved, people fall sick as a consequence of not adequately resting, I even hear some say, ‘Oh, man must hustle.’!!! Out of curiosity, I searched out the real meaning of the word hustle; and what I found astonished me; “Exerting so much energy, without any productivity.” Now, dearly beloved, I understand why the scripture counsels saying, “He will not let you stumble; the one who watches over you will not slumber.” Read Psalm 121:3 (NLT). A common term used in the military is the word “AT EASE,” (of a standing soldier, etc in a relaxed position with the feet apart and hands linked behind the back, a command to adopt such a position in a relaxed attitude or frame of mind‘). And I do believe and say to you by the Spirit of God, “AT EASE SOLDIER,” “IT IS WELL WITH YOUR SOUL.”

You and I have been enlisted into God’s army, hence the Bible says, “Take your share of suffering as a good soldier of Jesus Christ, just as I do; and as Christ’s soldier, do not let yourself become tied up in worldly affairs, for then you cannot satisfy the one who has enlisted you in his army.” Read 2 Timothy 2:3-4 (TLB). We have a Commander-in-Chief to please, to honor, to respect and to glorify. So here is my question to you today, are you going to remain DIS-EASED or AT EASE?

I counsel you therefore, be AT EASE, “for your Father in Heaven knows you have need of these things.” Read Matthew 6:8. But “Seek first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” Read Matthew 6:33 (NKJV).

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