Imagine If All Kept the 10th Commandment

Welcome to the FINAL installment of our "Imagine If" series, where we explore the profound impact on society if everyone embraces even just one of the Ten Commandments. In this final reflection, we turn to the 10th Commandment, which, through Paul's inspired words, reveals the heart of many societal issues. As Paul writes in Romans 7:7, "For I would not have known covetousness unless the law had said, 'You shall not covet.'" (NKJV)

This commandment exposes a problem at the very core of human nature--the desire to possess what belongs to others. It is the root of many other sins, leading to actions like stealing, adultery, and even murder. The commandment itself, as stated in Exodus 20:17, offers a detailed picture of this destructive desire:

"You shall not covet your neighbor's house; you shall not covet your neighbor's wife, nor his male servant, nor his female servant, nor his ox, nor his donkey, nor anything that is your neighbor's."

At its heart, this commandment addresses the desire to possess what belongs to someone else. Wanting a home or desiring a lawful relationship isn't in itself sinful, but when we begin to crave what is rightfully another's, we step into dangerous territory. This is precisely what God warns us against in the 10th commandment.

The Consequences of Coveting: A Biblical Example

To see the devastating impact of breaking this commandment, we need look no further than the tragic story of King Ahab in 1 Kings 21. Despite being the King of Israel, with all the wealth and power that came with his position, Ahab coveted his neighbor Naboth's vineyard. When Naboth refused to sell his family's inheritance, Ahab's unchecked desire led him into deep despair. His wife, Jezebel, upon hearing of his sorrow, devised a wicked scheme to have Naboth falsely accused and killed, allowing Ahab to seize the vineyard.

This story illustrates the destructive consequences of unchecked covetousness. Ahab's actions brought ruin not only to Naboth, but to Ahab and his family as well, culminating in tragic judgment for both Ahab and Jezebel.

The Cure for Covetousness: Contentment

Rather than allowing covetousness to take root in our hearts, Paul encourages us to be content with the blessings God has already provided. In Hebrews 13:5, he writes, "Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'" (NKJV) True contentment is rooted in the assurance that God will provide for us.

Paul expands on this in 1 Timothy 6:6-7, where he writes, "Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out." (NKJV) Contentment brings peace because it means we are complete, satisfied with what we have, and not driven by the constant desire for more.

A Society Without Covetousness

Imagine a world where no one coveted what others had. Such a society would be marked by greater peace and fewer conflicts. As James writes in James 4:1-2, "Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members? You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war." (NKJV) Desire unchecked can lead to violence, hatred, and strife--both on an individual level and on a larger scale, including among nations.

A world that embraced contentment over covetousness would experience less conflict, fewer wars, and greater unity. Wouldn't that be a beautiful thing?

A Time for Gratitude

As we approach the American Thanksgiving week, let us take time to reflect on the many blessings God has bestowed upon us. Let us cultivate hearts of gratitude for His provision, not only in our personal lives, but also as a church and as a nation. When we choose contentment over covetousness, we become more attuned to the goodness of God in our lives and are better able to live in peace with one another.

Have a wonderful Sabbath!

W.M.Bradford