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Expressing Love for Neighbor
Desires and Attitudes
 

Attitudes are normally reflected by one's actions. Because of this, some articles about attitudes may be located elsewhere on this website.

This commandment focuses on the heart - desires or attitudes which are not always visible to others, but which can strongly influence what we do. It can include obvious visible expressions (such as greed), but it also includes issues such as: desiring things for the wrong reasons, being discontent (rather than content) about circumstances, etc.

Do you think you deserve a "better life" or different living conditions, or more prosperity, or a greater ability to go after the "pursuit of happiness"? Do you think your interests are more important than the needs of others? (Which would you "sacrifice," if you couldn't satisfy both?) Do your goals in life reflect love for self, or love for God and neighbor? Is your love for the things of the world greater then your love for God (as evidenced by your choices and the way you live)? Reflect on matters such as these... and you may discover that you need to give some serious thought to what it means to "not covet."

By the way, did you know that coveting is a form of idolatry?


Selected Verses About "Contentment"

A list of verses (with a short summary of what they say), which you could use as the starting point for your own study of this topic.

Proverbs 21:17 (The Consequences of a Pleasure-Loving Lifestyle)

A look at Proverbs 21:17. Designed for use with teenagers, in a discussion group, but can be used for personal reflection. Contains: 1) words for an overhead transparency (best in PDF format); 2) Scripture passages and questions to think about (for a group session); and 3) teaching/study notes.

A Few Comments About Riches and Poverty

A few comments that provide us with an opportunity to reflect on our attitudes and actions.

Grumbling, Murmuring, Complaining

Normally, this group of words has to do with a sinful attitude and its expression in what we say. Scripture considers it a much greater sin than we tend to view it. We need to get serious about this matter and deal with it. (This study is based on the New Testament Greek word goggusmos and some other related words.)

See Also:

Jesus says...

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Mathew 6:19-21)