Podcasts about covetousness

What's at stake in fleeing covetousness and fighting for contentment in future grace is eternal life.

You have everything you need. A good job, a house, the car that you want. Individual freedom to follow your dreams, be who you want to be, do what you want to do, go where you want, when you want, dress in the latest fashion—the god of freedom, an idol. Your desires define your path. That is your identity. And each day you strive to build on this identity because it isn't fixed. It evolves based on what you feel and think. There is no rest in this identity. It is an endless pursuit of self. The idol of self isn't like other things we can point to because the finish line is ever moving. We always want to be something or someone more than we are. How much are you thinking about these things? But when did this thinking of self begin? Now the serpent was more crafty than any other beast of the field that the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God actually say, ‘You shall not eat of any tree in the garden'?” And the woman said to the serpent, “We may eat of the fruit of the trees in the garden, but God said, “'You shall not eat of the fruit of the tree that is in the midst of the garden, neither shall you touch it, lest you die.'” But the serpent said to the woman, “You will not surely die. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil (Genesis 3:1-5). Eve. She desired to be something she wasn't, having knowledge of good and evil like God. It wasn't because there wasn't perfectly good fruit in the rest of the garden. Eve fell to the idol of self. Satan got her to overthink about all she could have but didn't. From that moment on, humanity began the race with itself, to run continually seeking to be something we are not. Overthinking about ourselves and forgetting to think about God. God created us in his image but not to be gods. Our present cultural norm of self-sufficiency says we don't need anyone or anything to be successful. God? Why would you need God in your everyday decisions and thinking? What we forget is this deception in thought started in the Garden of Eden. The basic definition of self-sufficient is problematic in and of itself. “Needing no help in satisfying one's basic needs, like food.” Last I checked, we are very dependent on not only others, but also on things wildly outside of our human control when it comes to food. Last I checked, we don't control the rain or sunshine required to grow crops. While we have created technologies to help supply water when there isn't any for crops or livestock during a drought, we control less than we believe. The secondary definition of self-sufficient is emotionally and intellectually independent. Eve was seeking intellectual independence when she ate the forbidden fruit. She wanted self-sufficiency. When I think about the Garden of Eden and the beauty, provision and abundance described, my mind drifts off to a place where there was peace and a oneness with the Lord. Yet Eve was tempted. In perfect communion with the Lord, she wanted intellectual independence from God! Thanks to Eve, we don't live in Eden, and ever since the fall, the volume of temptation to self-sufficiency has been dialed up to a fevered pitch with everything in our midst competing against our thoughts of God! Peace and oneness with him seem elusive, even for those of us who have accepted Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. Our days are filled with temptation to lean into idols that make us overthink about ourselves and think less about Jesus! Let's call these the idols of self. Basically, anything that prioritizes thinking of “self” above everything and everyone else, most importantly, thinking about yourself more than God. That fevered noise in our culture about how we can overthink ourselves is anything but peaceful. Appearance. How much are you thinking each day about your appearance? Has this become an idol of self? This can manifest in so many ways so let's just consider a few. Wanting to dress professionally and look nice for work is one thing, but has this become something that takes up a lot of your thinking? Do you worry about what other people are wearing? Do you comment on other people when they are dressed differently? What about your hair and makeup? Are you skipping devotional time with the Lord to make sure you look the best? Are you watching fashion reels on social media or shopping online instead of reading your Bible? Do you seek attention by what you are wearing and get an extra charge when someone compliments the way you look? On average, women spend between $1,500-$2,000 on clothing and $1,000-$3,700 on beauty products and services annually. Again, this is average, and most studies will tell you the more you make at work, the more you will spend on average. Other costs to consider are gym memberships and other cosmetic services many women are using to stay looking their best! None of this is truly “bad” but when you overthink it and it becomes an idol, anything good can quickly become a slippery slope leading you away from your identity in God and closer to what our noisy culture is demanding of you. Remember the Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). If you overthink your appearance, what does this indicate about your heart? Sovereignty. Are you someone that always thinks you are right? Is the sovereignty of self an idol for you? Even believers of Jesus can get caught in this overthinking that lives to expect others to function by their own moral compass. Even if your compass is Jesus, are you lording over people with your views and pushing them away from the true gospel with your rules instead of being loving. For there are many who are insubordinate, empty talkers and deceivers (Titus 1:10). The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron. They forbid people to marry and order them to abstain from certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth (1 Timothy 4:1-3). God's Word says these people must be rebuked! You cannot add “your rules” to God's truth! Lately, we have seen people's thoughts on full display through social media. Somehow, we have mixed culture and politics with a message about Jesus that truly does not add up. Judgements when others don't believe what we do or how we do are quick. When you spend time overthinking how other people aren't like you or doing what you want them to do instead of focusing on how God would want you to show up to those that are different from you, sovereignty of self may be an idol. There is only one lawgiver and judge, he who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor (James 4:12)? We are not supposed to be the judge of others. This doesn't mean we should shy away from providing good feedback to others in a non-judgmental way, but we need to avoid thinking we are the end all be all! The only truth is in the Word of God! Only God can truly change things and the more we overthink about our way being the right way, the less we remember God's way! Self-Promotion/Pride. Unfortunately, many who are overthinking about their way being the right way have a significant platform for self-promotion. Even if you don't suffer with thoughts of self-sovereignty, are you thinking a lot about your next social media post or how many views, likes and follows you have? Is the idol of self-promotion taking ahold of your time? If you post something that you feel good about, are you overly disappointed if it doesn't perform well? Maybe you only receive one “like”. How does this shift your mood? Are you angry or discouraged? On the other end of the spectrum, let's say you have a following on social media—many likes and many follows. Are you spending more time thinking about these followers than you are about God? Beyond social media, how are you promoting yourself up at work? Do you think about the next meeting and how you will comment or get noticed? Do you worry when you don't get the last word or when another colleague receives accolades? If you lead a team, how do you balance taking credit or giving it? Are you an I or a we colleague? I did this or we worked together… The Bible consistently warns about self-promotion and pride and not thinking of others. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted (Matthew 23:12). Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord. For it is not who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends (2 Corinthians 10:17-18) Remembering pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall (Proverbs 16:18). In the pride of his face the wicked does not seek him; all his thoughts are; there is no God (Psalm 10:4). Bottom line, if you are thinking about exalting yourself and how it makes you feel, good or bad, more than you are thinking about what God tells you to do in his Word, you are overthinking about yourself! Covetousness. Do you spend a lot of time thinking about things you want or don't have? Even covetousness, a fancy word for jealousy, can be another way of overthinking about yourself. Described as a harmful spirit in 1 Samuel, jealousy can “rush upon us” when we least expect it. In 1 Samuel we learn how Saul is truly jealous of the attention David is receiving retuning from war. He is jealous of how people follow David, so much so that he seeks to harm David both directly and by sending him off to more conflict. Jealousy can create so many thoughts. I wish I had clothes like her. If only, I had the opportunities so and so had. I really like that car that he drives. How can I get these things, or how can I take the good attention away from someone else and get this spotlight on me?! Are you like Saul? Jealous and overthinking about how you wish someone wasn't as prosperous as you? Are you plotting ways to tear them down? Has a harmful spirit rushed upon your thinking? James 3:16 tells us where jealousy and selfish ambition exist there will be disorder and every vile practice. And this is not God's will for us! Remember, our God will supply every need of ours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19). God also chooses who he will exalt and when. We are just called to follow him! Overthinking about ourselves is isolating. Whether we are overconsumed thinking about our appearance, thinking we are always right, deciding how we can promote ourselves, or coveting what someone else has, we are simply overthinking about ourselves! All these ways of overthinking don't draw us closer to God or others. These patterns of overthinking can lead to isolation and even depression. We were created for unity with God and community with other believers. Now, how can we shift this overthinking? Releasing ourselves from the culture driven notions that self is the central most important part of our life is first. People and things can never provide for our central happiness! Seeking praise from others will always disappoint us! The gospel is the direct antithesis of the culture of self-idolatry. Jesus invites us to a beautiful life of thinking about him! Start with abiding. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me. I am the vine and you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing (John 15: 4-5). Abide in my love (John 15:9). In Jesus, you will bear much fruit! Without him, you will do nothing. Remember why you exist. It isn't to think about yourself. You were made for God. Life itself is amazing—a gift from God each day. Turning your overthinking about yourself to thinking about God will bring joy and fulfillment beyond what you can fathom!

Hear more sermons at http://www.lvbaptist.org/service-podcast/ Watch Our TV Broadcast here: https://www.lvbaptist.org/wfmz-program/ Visit us here: Lehigh Valley Baptist Church 4702 Colebrook Ave. Emmaus, PA 18049

This powerful exploration of Judges 17-18 confronts us with an uncomfortable mirror reflecting the chaos that emerges when we abandon God's ways for our own preferences. At the heart of this passage lies a haunting refrain that echoes through our modern culture: everyone did what was right in their own eyes. We encounter Micah, who builds his own shrine and hires his own priest, creating a customized version of faith that looks religious but lacks true obedience. Then there's the wandering Levite who abandons his God-given calling for personal gain, and the tribe of Dan who seeks an easier path rather than fighting for the inheritance God assigned them. These aren't just ancient stories of failure, they're warnings about the human heart's tendency toward self-deception. The Bible reminds us that our hearts are desperately deceitful, not naturally good as our culture suggests. When we make ourselves the standard instead of God's Word, we don't find freedom but bondage. This passage challenges us to examine whether we're trying to earn God's favor through religious activity or truly resting in His grace. Are we creating our own version of Christianity that fits our preferences, or are we humbly submitting to God's design? The detailed account of moral collapse in these chapters isn't meant to turn our stomachs but to turn our hearts back to the only true King who can save us from ourselves.apter 1: The Danger of Self-Directed Religion0:00 - 7:41We examine the opening of Judges 17-21, which reveals what happens when people abandon God's ways and create their own version of religion based on personal preference.Chapter 2: Micah's Homemade Religion7:41 - 19:18We encounter Micah who steals from his mother, builds his own shrine, creates idols, and hires his own priest, illustrating the dangers of trying to manipulate God through external religion.Chapter 3: The Levite's Compromise and Dan's Covetousness19:18 - 41:02We witness a Levite abandoning his God-given responsibilities for personal gain, and the tribe of Dan seeking an easier inheritance by attacking a peaceful town and stealing Micah's idols.Chapter 4: The Consequences of Self-Rule41:02 - 48:01We reflect on how these chapters reveal the devastating results of living without God's authority, and we're challenged to submit every decision to God rather than following our own way.

Unyime Akpan - June 6th, 2026 - How to Live as Believers Colossians 3:1-17 Set Your Sight on Heaven Highest Life Chapter 3:1-4 Put to Death the Sinful Nature Holiest Life Chapter 3:5-9 Put on Your New Nature Happiest Life Chapter 3:10-17 Luke 12 Jesus Teaches About a Prodigal Steward Luke 16:1-14 A Prodigal Steward (Manager) vs 1-3 A Dishonest Shrewd Steward (Manager) vs 4-8 Lessons for the Disciples vs 9-13 Jesus is Ridiculed by the Pharisees vs 14 Jesus Responds to the Pharisees vs 15-31 Jesus on Covetousness, Money, Riches, Wealth Matthew 6:1-4; 19-34 Matthew 13:1-23 vs 22 Luke 4:1-8 Luke 8:4-15 Luke 12 Luke 15 Luke 16 Luke 18:18-30 Luke 19 Luke 21:1-4

Leprosy?; Plaguing Israel; Priest diagnosis; Healing leprosy; Moses vs Miriam; "Antisemitism"?; Terah's idolatry; Covetousness in Sodom; Degrees of freedom; Cursing your children; "The Way" of Christ; "America"; Human Resources; Slavery; Releasing from bondage; Judges/gods; Choosing slavery; Allegiance?; Melchizedek; Breaking down walls?; "Altars"; Freewill offerings; "Hedges"?; Boundaries; No coveting; Libraries?; Taxes vs endowment; Provisions through freewill offerings; Peace through charity; Which gods do you serve?; Making the Word of God of none effect; Legal title; Consensual offerings; Jacob's dealings with Laban; Moses - given freedom and leadership; Free souls under God; "Religion"; Altars and wood; Organizing society; Counsel; "Priests" ministering to ministers; Government of, for and by the people; Consent; Rulers offering dainties; Fleshpots; Misinterpreting the bible; Welfare snares; Social Safety Nets?; ayin-vav-resh (skin, to make bare, stir up); biet-shin-resh (skin of the flesh, tidings); nun-shin-aleph (rising); Leprosy - becoming stricken - with what? Confusion? Temptation?; Worshipping wealth; Christ - king and priest; Repentance; Help for co-congregants; Becoming a nation of service; Thinking "kingdom"; Laying down your life for others; Lev 13:6; Garment?; Treachery?; Disease of the spirit; Contaminating; Moving toward righteousness; Removing dependence on forced offerings; Influence and control; Common purse; Democracy; Metaphors; Romulus and Remus?; Lev 13:13; Contagion of ideas; Hospice?; Biting one another; Sacrificing to idols; Darkening your eyes; Sewing underwear of your ministers?; Thinking YOU are the chosen people; Follow Christ's Way!

When you hyper-focus on what you think you lack, you aren't practicing gratitude, and you can become discontent. When you covet what someone else has, you will start to believe that God is withholding something good from you. That means our discontentment is not about our life circumstances but about the state of our hearts.  Melissa Kruger joins the Perrys to talk about a book Jackie stumbled upon when looking for resources on the topic of covetousness – one that Melissa wrote back in 2012 called “The Envy of Eve: Finding Contentment in a Covetous World.” Whatever you're wanting, it will not ultimately be soul-satisfying. We spend our time chasing the contentment we want when it's available to us simply by abiding with Jesus.  Connect with Melissa: https://www.instagram.com/melissabryankruger  https://melissabkruger.com/ Check out Melissa's book, "The Envy of Eve: Finding Contentment in a Covetous World" – https://www.amazon.com/Envy-Eve-Finding-Contentment-Covetous/dp/1845507754 Jackie and Melissa's Ephesians study with Jasmine Holmes: https://www.lifeway.com/en/product/ephesians-bible-study-book-with-video-access-P005843174? Scripture References Genesis 3 Philippians 4:11-13 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 This Episode is Sponsored By: https://weekendtoremember.com — Register now with code PERRY to save $100 on any getaway! - Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scripture commands contentment. Culture manufactures discontent. Hebrews 13:5 addresses both behaviour and condition. "Conversation" refers to manner of life. This is not limited to speech—it is lifestyle. "Without covetousness"—this is the removal of desire for what has not been given. Covetousness is not possession. It is craving. "Be content with such things as ye have"—this is not passive acceptance. It is active satisfaction. The reason follows: "for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee." Contentment is rooted in presence, not possession. Have you recently decided to follow Jesus? Take your next step with Jesus: https://cbcgb.co.uk ⛪ ABOUT CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCHES: We believe that our Calvary Baptist Churches are a movement for all people to know God, Reaching Others, Building Lives, Honouring God and Make a Difference.

Defending/destroying "democracy"?; Rights from God?; Declaration of Independence; Which "god"?; Who is YOUR creator?; Truth, and relating to it; Pennsylvania; Social Security "trust"; Voting?; "disciples"; First republic; American Creed; Democracy within a republic; Socialism?; Institutions within the United States; "IRGC"?; Knowing what Christ instituted; Founding fathers on "democracy"; Federalist 10; Social welfare through the state?; Signing up for socialism; Waiving access to rights by obligation; Logos (right reason) of Christ; Democracy - source of tyranny; Obey the Lord, or the majority?; Deut 16:19; Motivation for doing good - affirmation?; "People persons"; Knowing what the bible is really about; "Mystery Babylon"; Welfare snares; Deut 28:1; Reading the bible with Holy Spirit; Meditation; Deut 28:15; Deut 28:27 "botch" of Egypt = Leprosy; Contracting with government; "Israel"; Listening the voice of God; Preferring bondage to liberty; Love of receiving praise; Prov 1:10; One purse; Gathering with kingdom purposes; Seeking His kingdom and righteousness; Christ's "command"; Appetites for benefits; Your consent; Debt obligation; Democracy bad?; Changes during war; Who condemned Jesus?; US Nation of servants; "Vote" = Vow, agree with terms; Tree of Life; Remaining individuals; Binding by righteousness, love, sacrifice; Mt 7:22; Commandments; Blind guides; Accepting lies; Repentance = changing your mind; "Over justification"; Believing you are free; Rewiring your brain; Capgras; Listening to Holy Spirit - step by step; Humility; Admitting you've become merchandise - why?; Covetousness; Idolatry; Take responsibility; Forgiveness; Sacrifice; Intention for voting; Taking the journey back to God's kingdom; Loving truth; Voting in the kingdom; Votive offering; Bible - for government of, for and by the people; God's ministers; Melchizedek; Voting as part of the government; YOU are in the trust fund; No ruling over your neighbor; Only ruling over what you have; Buddy-system times 10; Jud 8:22; What's God telling you?; God is a giver of live; Family = autonomous unit; Undermining family; Your choice; Perfect law of liberty; Defending your right to choose; Covering for covetousness; Waiting upon the Lord; Forming/managing congregations; Listening to God's opinion; Is it a sin to vote?; Are you regulated by approval?; What's important to you?

Colossians 3:5-17 (ESV)Andrew and Edwin discuss the attitudes and behaviors we need to strip off like contaminated clothes and the new ones we must put on like royal, holy garments.Read the written devo that goes along with this episode by clicking here.    Let us know what you are learning or any questions you have. Email us at TextTalk@ChristiansMeetHere.org.    Join the Facebook community and join the conversation by clicking here. We'd love to meet you. Be a guest among the Christians who meet on Livingston Avenue. Click here to find out more. Michael Eldridge sang all four parts of our theme song. Find more from him by clicking here.   Thanks for talking about the text with us today.________________________________________________If the hyperlinks do not work, copy the following addresses and paste them into the URL bar of your web browser: Daily Written Devo: https://readthebiblemakedisciples.wordpress.com/?p=25607The Christians Who Meet on Livingston Avenue: http://www.christiansmeethere.org/Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TalkAboutTheTextFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/texttalkMichael Eldridge: https://acapeldridge.com/ 

"Leprosy"; tzedek-resh-ayin-tav; Modern disease - Hanson's disease?; Destruction of the Temple; Pharisees rejected Jesus; "Religion"; Priests; Spaniard's story; Healing from Priests? Or doctors?; Tree of Knowledge vs Tree of Life; Organizing in Tens, Hundreds and Thousands; Abandoning common purse; Pilgrims; Socialism; Free men under God; "Theos"; Bring ancient scripture into modern time; Degeneration of society; How to use knowledge; Revelation; Bible misinterpretation; Squelching truth; The divine solution; Reserve fund; Gen 2:15; Dress and keep the garden; Dominion; "Eating" of the trees; Organization of knowledge; Caring for others; Loving truth; Two trees; Hiding from God; Substitute solutions; Opened eyes; Treacherous clothing?; Torah vs Torat; Guidance from Tree of Life; Deception; Accepting Jesus?; Mt 7:20 By their fruits; Kingdom of Heaven/God; Foundation on the "rock"; Divine revelation; Foolish men; Not to be that way with you!; Winning back your government?; Becoming merchandise; "We the People"?; Biblical constitutions; Deut 17; Christ's COMMANDS; Voluntaryism; Being doers of the word; Responsibility; Rev 18:11; 1 Cor 16:9; Adversaries; Deut 6:12; Rom 11:9 Welfare snares; 2 Pet 2:3; Covetousness; Sureties for debt; Your relationship to government; Wars and rumors of wars; Debt notes; The rule of force and violence; vs Freewill offerings; Sharing; Charity; US Notes vs Just weights and measures; God of agreements; Allegiance?; Exercising authority; Addiction to benefits; Caring about your neighbor; Usury; License plates?; Use tax; Legal title; Lacking knowledge; Wanting to see the truth; The right way; Government of, for and by the people; "Tens"; Taking back your responsibilities; Love = Charity; Bondage of Egypt; "Israel"; Eating habits; Not wanting to change; Today's "Rome" (image of the beast); Changing of the courts - Equity; The Comforter; Fervent charity; Livestock?; Setting the captive free; "Idolatry"; "Socialism"; Finding God's heart in others; Choose truth!

Sunday Morning 3rd May 2026 - 2 Kings 5:20-27 - Pastor Kendal Davies 

The Praise O'Clock Show (also known as The Praiseworld Podcast) is the breakfast show of Praiseworld Radio.Host: Goodness Ezeh, Kanyinsola OmojolaQuote of The Day"God's almighty power is not a brute force, but a power that is guided by infinite wisdom and animated by perfect love." — A.W Tozer

Unyime Akpan - May 3rd, 2026 - How to Live as Believers (Colossians 3:1-17) Set Your Sight on Heaven Highest Life Chapter 3:1-4 Put to Death the Sinful Nature Holiest Life Chapter 3:5-9 Put on Your New Nature Happiest Life Chapter 3:10-17 Jesus on Covetousness, Money, Richs Matthew 6:1-4; 19-34 Matthew 13:1-23 vs 22 Luke 4:1-8 Luke 12 Luke 16 Luke 18:18-30 Luke 12 – A Day in the Ministry of Jesus Very Large Crowd (Many Thousands) Jesus To His Disciples Don't Be a Hypocrite Do not be afraid (Do not fear) Don't be ashamed of me Jesus Is Interrupted, somebody makes a request to Jesus Tell My brother to share inheritance with me Jesus To the Crowd Warns about Covetousness –defines the term Tells a parable (all vision and dreams) and concludes Jesus To His Disciples, therefore Do not worry (anxious) Do not be afraid (Do not fear) Be Prepared for my return Jesus is with you NO to Hypocrisy NO to Fear YES to Proclaiming Christ NO to Covetousness (Greed) Jesus is for you NO to Worry (Anxiety) NO to Fear YES to Giving YES to Staying Ready for His Return

Covetousness runs deeper than mere desire — it is believing that what you have isn't enough to be whole. Then busyness disguises the hunger for significance as sacrifice and thrives in the noise that misses God's presence. We've been in its storm for so long we've forgotten the calm. Contentment isn't found in abundance, but in God's supply, living in his potential, not ours. Life Journey's page: facebook.com/lifejourneys.us

Are you a Christian?; Under what law?; What's your direction? Mt 24:5 "Many"; Christ = Anointed; Mk 13:6; Lk 21:8; Striking accord; Strong delusion?; Personal savior?; Words vs deeds; Checklist; Mystery Babylon vs Kingdom of God; Idolatry = Covetous; Choosing a commander-in-chief; Tribe of Ruben; Acts 13:43; "Grace of God"?; Baptism with Holy Spirit; "Pure Religion"; Unspotted by the "world"; Exercising authority; Legal Charity; Dividing house-to-house; Sharing with the needy; Benefit addiction?; "Nicolaitans"; "Baalam"; Social welfare through Charity alone; Welfare weakening people; Brethren of Christ?; What are WE doing?; Mt 6:14; Prerequisites for being forgiven; Abortion; Making marriages work; Covetousness is not okay; Taking care of parents; What saved Israel?; Knowing Abraham, Moses and Jesus; Sacrifice?; Christian conflict in Rome; Tithing?; Misunderstanding "worship"; Jesus, "Seek, strive, persevere…"; Fire of God?; Public Religion; Calling no man on Earth "father"; Owing Caesar; "Eucharist"?; Jesus appointed a kingdom; Cursing your children; Degenerating society; Love requires sacrifice; Getting separate from the world?; Christian in belief only; 1 John 3:10; 1 Tim 3:7; Baptism with fire and Holy Spirit; Why gather?; Socialism; Opportunities to forgive; Right reason of Christ; John 3:16 - keep reading; Sharing the light; Laying down your life; Strengthening the poor; Denominations?; Being a doer of the word; Christ's commands; Seek His kingdom and His righteousness.

Leviticus to Revelation; Studying Greek; Patterns in Hebrew; Untranslated Hebrew word aleph-tav; Spoken Hebrew; Sophistry; Tabernacle?; Calendars; Burning sheep?; Knowing how things work; Feeding society's needy; Offerings; "Chain of service"; Herding sheep; Society governing itself; Following Torah; Public/private religion; Misinterpreting the Old Testament; Human nature; Progressivism; Aleph-tav; Relationship of God and man + faith; Rulers; Taxation; Cain and Abel; Strange gods; Humility; Inspiration and faith via individuals; Freewill offerings only; Charity; Choice!; Sons of Aaron; Seed of Abraham; No exercising authority; Socialism; Tithing by choice; Minster responsibilities; Strange fire; Burnt offering; Forced offerings?; Abraham's faith; Human resources; Border walls; Returning to The Way of God; Forcing neighbors; Lack of faith that freewill offerings will work; Forgiveness; Cursing your children with debt; Child sacrifice; Abraham's struggles; Are you willing to free your neighbor?; Fasting from government benefits; Welfare snares; String delusion; Leviticus about social welfare system; Believing God is in the process; Covetousness = idolatry; Children of disobedience; Amos 5:23 Noise; Building a stone temple?; Oaths?; Righteousness?; Gathering as Christ commanded; Beware of public religion; Aleph-tav-kuf-mem?; Social welfare by civil powers - spoiled sacrifices; Victim mentality; Allowing you to judge others; Listening to the song of Moses and of the Lamb; Aleph-tav - trust in God; Sophistry of "eighth"; Revelation?; Freewill offerings; National debt = child sacrifice; Creating the table of the Lord; How does God want you to live?; Fat = substance/value; Lev 9:22 in the process of time; Bringing light; Nurturing your "spark"; Love of Christ; "Christ"; Healing our nation?; Not the eighth day - but the time coming to pass; shem-mem-yod-nun-yod; Making America great again; Becoming merchandise; Taking care of neighbor; No exercising authority; Lacking eyes to see; Repentance; Stop being covetous!

In this message from the In Christ series, Scott Wiens opens Ephesians 5:3–10 to draw a clear line between darkness and light. He addresses the way darkness often disguises itself as “it's not that big a deal,” “everyone does it,” or “that verse doesn't apply anymore,” and he invites you to see how the gospel reshapes what we desire, how we speak, and how we live. Scott grounds the text in its original setting—Ephesus, a city saturated with pagan worship and sexual permissiveness—and shows why Paul's words were aimed at the church. The call isn't to outrage at the culture, but to personal holiness, integrity, and a community life that is above reproach.Scott defines the four sins Paul names—sexual immorality, impurity, covetousness, and corrupt speech—and explains why they're more than behavior problems. Sexual immorality is any sexual activity outside God's design of one man and one woman in a marriage covenant. Impurity points to a mind that celebrates what God forbids, proving you can't separate body and heart. Covetousness is greed turned into worship, which is why Paul calls it idolatry. Then Paul moves to our words—filthiness, foolish talk, crude joking—and gives a surprising replacement: thanksgiving. When we stay close to the gospel and remember the gift of redemption, gratitude becomes our new default, and over time it reorients our vocabulary and our choices.Scott also names the “empty words” that try to excuse sin—cultural permission, selective theology, the claim that biblical ethics are outdated—and contrasts them with the conviction of the Holy Spirit, who will not be silenced in a true believer. He makes a crucial distinction between stumbling and making sin your identity, and he offers the pastoral help we need for real change: do not participate, learn to discern what pleases the Lord, and expose the works of darkness—beginning with our own hearts—through confession and accountability. Along the way, he cautions against “living on the edge,” reminds us that what we focus on is what we reflect, and shows why a life of gratitude leads to freedom and joy.If you're ready to stop partnering with darkness and to walk as a child of light, this message will help you take honest, practical steps. Watch or listen, share it with a friend who needs encouragement, and ask yourself: where do you need clearer discernment this week?We are Trinity Community Church in Knoxville, Tennessee.Subscribe to our Podcast & YouTube channel to find past sermons, classes, interviews, and more!Find us on Facebook & Instagram

In this sermon, Doug unpacks the progression of Achan's sin against God and explains how our sin leads to consequences that effect our relationships and community, but we do not need to live in condemnation but allow conviction lead us to repentance, restoring our relationship with God and others.

Capitalism in the kingdom; Individuals have a right to what they produce; Socialism and Communism are political systems; One purse; Exercizing power; God's basic institution = Family; Bible story; "Creation"; Doing your own research; Inspiration; Hunting deer; Divine right of kings; Different courts; Persia; False economy; William the Conqueror; Doomsday book; Becoming subject; John the Baptist in Parthia; Fiat money; Legal title; Imaginary freedom; Lack of ownership; "Globalism"; "Babylon"; "Caliphate"; Idolatry; Becoming merchandise; "Breast"?; Davey Crockett; Lady Godiva; Covetousness; Council of Trent; Degenerating society; Women's suffrage; Taking back your responsibilities; Caring for neighbors; Strengthening your character; Vehicle ownership; Free market societies?; Repentance; Why we gather; Overcoming our strong delusion; Understanding the gospel; Wanting everyone to be saved; Organizing in Tens, Hundreds and Thousands; Kingdom vs Congregation; Victim mentality; Leaving judgment to God; Empathy for underdogs; Self-discipline; Loving the sinner; Desiring benefits at the expense of your neighbor; Systems contrary to Christ; Q from Katwellair: False liberty?; False hope?; Dependence on covetousness; Romans; Prayer; Guidance by Holy Spirit; Depending on approval of others?; Blaming others?; The loving way of Christ.

Leviticus: Instructions to the Levites; 400 years of captivity; Jealousy of Joseph; Corruption in city-states; Abraham's altars; Blessings of Melchizedek; Colonizers; Liberty?; The road to freedom; Semites?; "Seed of Abraham"; Tithes?; Warnings from the bible; Cities of blood; THE Way; "Church" in the wilderness; Fig leaves; "Bethel"; Tending sheep; Stripping off fig leaves; Lev 8:1 Speaking to Moses?; Why baskets?; Which door?; Family; Institution of The Church; Wealthy leaders; Lev 8:5 Mobile tabernacle; Golden calf; Cities of refuge; Supreme court?; No exercising authority; Commanders-in-chief; "No kings"?; Rebels; Colonial charters?; Naked?; gods of your government; "Apotheos"; Making things "great again"?; v6 baptism?; Aaron = priest; Permission to be priest; Ordering society; Police powers; Anointing the tabernacle; Pouring oil?; Tongues of fire?; Speaking in tongues?; Living by faith, not force; breastplate hey-chet-shin-nun; Electoral college?; Following Babylon/Cain/Nimrod; "Sanctify"; Freewill offerings; v13 coats? Covering kof-tav-nun-tav; girdle = abnet; sash?; Mitre?; Falling away from the spirit; Bullock's blood?; Burning with fire?; Inspiration; Reliance of Holy Spirit; Moses' system; vs FDR's; Redistributing to needy of society; taking responsibility for neighbors; "No King"ers actually want kings; Social safety net; v27 Aaron's hands?; Freewill offerings; Idols?; Sheep shearing?; Laban's statues; Genocide?; Benefit addiction; Covetousness; Network of priests; Becoming a real Christian; Garments?; Caring for needy; Unmoored imagery; Moses' real intention; Constantine?; Repentance and atonement; Jesus did his part; Distribute all that is offered; Going the ways of Christ; Faith hope and charity; Pure religion; No exercising authority; Ps 104:1; Corban of violence?; Opting out of the world's covetous systems; Urim and Thummim; Seek His kingdom and righteousness - Become a Doer Now!

Leviticus - turning points; What's wrong here?; Words?; Deception and sophistry; Gregory history; Burnout?; Accepting doctrines of men; Replacing the truth; Confusion; Learning Hebrew?; Writing; Alphabets; "Breastplate"?; chet-shin-nun; Questioning your teachers and preconceptions; Honoring parents; Caring - attending to their welfare; Why honor parents?; Monkey story; Old testament altars; Dignity, purpose and affirmation; "Wave offering"; Ex 29:24; "Aaron"; Garments?; Breeches made by the people?; Is God so shallow?; Breast of the ram?; Do you believe?; Ordering the wood; Sacrifice of the red heifer; "Heave offering"; Seed of Abraham; Faith!; "Idolatry"; Covetousness?; Freewill offerings; Creating social bonds; Moses' social security; Fire = wife/woman = caregiver of the family; Contributions for Christ; Righteous redistribution; "Sprinkling"; "wood" = "counsel"; Kickbacks? ;"One Purse"; Choosing what Christ had forbidden; Lev 8:1 Does Moses hear a voice?; Aaron and his sons; Seeking righteousness; Literally?; Tents of the congregation; Where to gather?; Washing Aaron and sons; Baptism; Urim and Thummim?; Chet-shin-nun; "Leaven"; Nakedness?; God breathed life into man; Tree of knowledge?; Sitting in darkness; Bringing light and liberty?; Presumptions; Clothing = status; Pastor?; Strange fire; Ex 29:21; Gleaning meaning; biet-gimel-dalet (garment); Steps?; Authority; Freewill offerings; Responsibility of government; Miracle of loaves and fishes; Oversight; Returning everyone to family and possessions; Making sure all have enough; Mt 20:25, Mk 10:42, Lk 22:25; "Sophistry" article - kidneys given to Levites?; "Burnt" offerings; Rights in God's system; vs man's system; Fixing corruption; Measuring a man's Christianity; "Casting bread upon the waters"; Pure Religion - unspotted by "world"; Dependence on government; Inheritance tax?; Legal title; Benefit addiction; Covetous practices; "breast" = chet-zayin-hey; Communicating with "stones"?; Enlightenment; "chezah" = see, behold, prophesy, provide; Redistributing the wave offering; Breast? Shin-dalet; DOGE?; Repentance; Recreating Christ's system; Service; Learning to be free; Going contrary to God's way; Parental responsibility; Family!; Hate of the day…; Error of Baalam = Deeds of Nicolaitans; Welfare snares; alternate system of Leviticus; Join the Living Network.

Listen to this week's sermon, Parables In Practice preached by Pastor Jason Dunn from Luke 12:13-34.

Dependence:We are a church who strives to live dependently on the power of the Holy Spirit in every area of our lives. We aren't trying to fix ourselves or anyone else with our own power, but trusting His power to work in us and through us.“Three months after leaving Egypt, Israel arrives at Mount Sinai, a location where they spend almost two years. Even more striking, the rest of the book of Exodus, all of Leviticus, and the first part of Numbers (through 10:11) take place at Sinai.”- Tremper Logman 3rd and Raymond Dillard“The people heard the voice of God for themselves and thus could not doubt his presence among them, a presence more directly manifest at Sinai than in any other mode previously since they had first learned of his interest in them. All the people were hearing the voice of God just as Adam, Eve, Noah, Abraham, and the patriarchs had heard it and as Moses had heard it earlier at Mount Sinai when God first called him. And this time the voice of God was accompanied by such audio and visual displays as to leave no doubt in their minds as to both his presence and his uniqueness…”- Douglas Stuart“This commandment highlights the twisted desires of mankind and the sin of discontentment. Instead of having a thankful heart, the coveter desires what others have. Notice also that this commandment is about the inward nature of the law. Covetousness is about the heart. It is about desire. It may or may not lead to an act, but even if there is no act, it is still wrong because our desire should be on the God who made us and redeemed us. Covetousness, then, involves breaking the first commandment.”- Tony MeridaVerses:Exodus 19:1-2Exodus 12:37Exodus 19:4-61 Peter 2:9Exodus 19:16-20Exodus 20:1Exodus 24:9-11Exodus 20:1-2Exodus 20:3-4Exodus 20:7Exodus 20:8Exodus 20:12-17Leviticus 18:1-4Exodus 20:18-21Exodus 20:21

If you had a billion dollars, what would you do? PF's answer might surprise you — and then he flips the question entirely. In this episode, PF, Esther, Kenneth, and Tunde tackle one of the most uncomfortable questions in Christian culture: how much money is actually enough? PF breaks down exactly what $1 million can cover (house, car, food, kids' tuition) and then asks why none of us would actually be satisfied with that.The conversation goes deeper than budgets. This is about contentment, greed, the pressure to keep up, and why the church needs to be the voice that says "you don't need that" when nobody else will.**In this episode:**- PF's billion-dollar plan (and why he wouldn't cover the church's bills)- The math on what you actually need vs. what you think you need- Why a producer went from happy in a small house to stressed in a mansion- The biblical case for contentment — and what "God supplies your needs" really means- Diaspora pressure: when your family thinks America means you're rich- PF confronts his own greed on camera**TIMESTAMPS**`00:00 - Cold Open: "Ask Me If I Used Church Money..."00:27 - Introduction: Esther, Kenneth, PF & Tunde01:48 - "If You Had a Billion Dollars, What Would You Do?"03:16 - Why PF Wouldn't Pay Off the Church's Bills (And Why That's Wise)05:00 - PF's Billion-Dollar Plan: Pay Off Everyone's Debt05:29 - The Bentley Continental GT Dream (Again)06:10 - "How Much Money Is Enough Money?"07:42 - The $1 Million Breakdown: What You Actually Need09:03 - "A Lot of What We Want Is Not What We Need"09:30 - Lifestyle Creep: 4-Bedroom House, 2 Empty Rooms12:02 - "One Million Can Sort You Out for Life"13:10 - "Our Comfort Is Not Determined By Our Need"16:10 - The Producer Who Went From Happy to Stressed17:34 - "Pride and Lust — Period."18:18 - Would You Judge a Homeless Person Who's Content?20:03 - PF Admits His Rolex Isn't a Need21:14 - Philippians 4:19: God Supplies Needs, Not Wants23:57 - Career Ambition or Covetousness? How to Tell the Difference25:52 - "If the Church Won't Say It, Who Will?"30:40 - Diaspora Pressure: When Family Thinks You're Rich40:04 - What PF Learned From His Wife About Not Caring42:09 - Closing: "When the Fruit Is Turning Your Belly, You've Over-Enjoyed"`

“I have learned, in whatever state I am, therewith to be content.” — Philippians 4:11 These words show us that contentment is not a natural propensity of man. “Ill weeds grow apace.” Covetousness, discontent, and murmuring are as natural to man as thorns are to the soil. We need not sow thistles and brambles; they […]

Jim Osman examines one of the Old Testament's most troubling figures: Balaam, the prophet for hire who tried to curse God's people for money. Though God spoke through him, Balaam was driven by greed and immorality, making him the perfect example of the false teachers Peter warns against. This message walks through Numbers 22-24, answering questions about why God used such a wicked man and what it reveals about false prophets today. Balaam's motives exposed his heart—he loved the wages of unrighteousness and deliberately departed from the right way. His morals led him to scheme against Israel through sexual immorality and idolatry when his curses failed. His madness shows the insanity of pursuing money and sin at the expense of eternal well-being. The talking donkey is the least confusing part of the story. The real issue is how someone can speak truth while living a lie, and what that teaches us about marking and avoiding false teachers whose hearts are trained in greed. If you have Christ and nothing else, you're richer than the wealthiest false teacher. ★ Support this podcast ★

CLICK HERE TO LEAVE COMMENTS, ?? or prayer requests send a textAre you fulfilled? Are you living your life's dream? Truthfully, in what do you find fulfillment? And to qualify your fulfillment is your glass half empty or half full? Welcome to yesterday ended, healing the traumas of life. We all have things we desire to obtain and achieve in life. Some people call them their bucket list. How are you doing in completing your bucket list? I'm your host Dennis Dobbin and I'm here to teach you about the price of being fulfilled. Give a listen.

In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores Jesus' teachings on covetousness, worry, and watchfulness as the Lord journeys toward Jerusalem. Fr. Matthias explains the difference between planning and worry, emphasizing Christ's call to trust God for our needs rather than fixating on material possessions. Using examples from nature and parables, he highlights the importance of seeking the kingdom of God first and storing up treasures in heaven rather than on earth. Fr. Matthias also unpacks the call to be watchful and prepared for the Lord's return, illustrating the consequences of neglecting spiritual stewardship and the blessings for those who remain faithful. He discusses the division Christ's message brings and the necessity of repentance before judgment. The study concludes with reflections on faith, mercy, and the power of Christ's healing. This teaching provides guidance on living a life centered on spiritual vigilance, trust in God's provision, and readiness for the coming of the Son of Man. Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhouston Follow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhouston Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhouston Visit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

Pastor Jordan shares Thursday's devotional podcast from Bible Fellowship Church. [Scripture: James 4:1-3 and Psalm 16:5-11]

Strong delusion today; Tree of Knowledge; Intellectuals; Altars = trusts; Maturity; In, but not of the world; Peace offerings; Artistic interpretation of burning offerings; Sacrifice; "wood" for altars?; Charity = freewill offerings; Cities of blood; "Anarchy"; Exercising authority over others; The sin of Sodom; Gen 18:20; Isa 3:9; Ez 16:49; Weakening the poor; Welfare snares; How to form a free society; Israel the republic; Grain reserves; Government of, for and by the people; Private religion; Melchizedek vs Abimelech; Pharisees not following Moses; No biting one another?; Wood on lively unhewn stones of the Altars; Counsell; Tabernacles; Bonds of the kingdom; Knowing the world's laws; Why go to church?; Daily ministration to the needy?; Eating at the table of rulers; Lot and the angels; Explaining the social welfare system of the kingdom; "Call no man on Earth Father"; Returning to rights and responsibilities; Christ's "command"; Network of Charity; Capitalist systems of economy; "Religion"; Human resources; Bishops distributing grain?; "Corban"; Meat with blood in it; Socialism; Making the word of God to none effect; Blind leading the blind; Judging and being judged; Actions have consequences; Making yourself merchandise; "Leaven"; Anarchists on welfare?; Covetousness; Understanding your position; Cursing children; Gal 3:7; Ez 7:23; Asking for help; Teaching God's system; Loving the truth; Ez 9:9; 1 Sam 8; Saul's election; "Strange fire"; Ez 22:2; Idolatry; Forced sacrifice?; Ez 24:6; Addiction to benefit; Ez 11:3; You're not in Israel!; Cauldrons and fleshpots; Creating socialist collectives; Benefits of Christ?; BEing the welfare of the righteous; "world"; Hab 2:7; Gen 9:4; Lev 17:10; Daily bread?; Biblical context; Ps 69:22-23; Darkened eyes; Right reason; Tree of Life; Act 15:20; Strangling = forcing; Having God as your fortress; Repentance; Rom 11:9; Prov 23:1; Ex 23:32; Sin or evidence of sin?; Ex 34:12; Deu 7:16; Looking for evidence; Fear not! Love!; Practicing pure religion; Emotional thinking; God as ruler; Finding the answer; Listening for God's voice; Faith is required; Faith is a gift; Arguing with God; Learning to care about your neighbor; Acceptance of benefits; Consent; Gen 14:18; Ps 110:4; Heb 5:6; Heb 6:20; Righteous king; Start your own repentance today.

The first admonitionPaul gives us is to walk in love. We walk in love because love is thefoundational characteristic of the Christian life. If we walk in love, we willnot disobey God or injure others, “for he who loves another has fulfilledthe law,” as we read in Romans 13:8. TheHoly Spirit places that love within our hearts. Romans 5:5, tells us that thelove of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit. It flows outof us because God is love. We are living with God, walking with God, andtherefore we are walking in love. Now Paul goes on to point out something else.Not only do we walk in love, but we also walk in the light. We see thisin verse 8, where he says, “For you were once darkness, but now you arelight in the Lord. Walk as children of light.” We walk in love, and we walkin light. Why? Because God is light. Remember, we are imitating our Father.When we walk in the light, we have nothing to do with the darkness of sin. Paulthen gives us specific descriptions of sins that we are to avoid. In verse 3,he says, “But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not evenbe named among you, as is fitting for saints.” Then in verse 4, he adds,“Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are notfitting, but rather giving of thanks.” First,we see sins of the flesh. Why do we avoid these sins? Because we are saints.Notice that phrase, “as is fitting for saints.” Saints are those who have beenset apart—sanctified—for the glory of God. We are different because we are inChrist, not because of anything special in ourselves, but because we belong toHim and have been set apart for His purposes. Myfriend, you don't have to wait for a church or an institution to declare you asaint. The moment you trust Jesus Christ as your Savior, you become a saint.Even the believers in the church at Corinth—troubled as that church was—werestill called saints. They had been set apart, even though there were things intheir lives and in their church that did not belong there. That's why Paul saysthese things are not fitting for saints. Whatis fitting for saints is that we do not walk in darkness, but in light. We putaside fornication, sexual sin, uncleanness, and covetousness. Covetousness isreally a weakness of our fallen nature—an expression of uncontrolled appetites.The fornicator and the covetous person both seek to satisfy desires by takingwhat does not belong to them. We see this clearly in 1 John 2:16, which speaksof “the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes.” Paul tells us thatthere should not even be a hint of these things among us. We stay away fromthem because they are not fitting for the saints of God. ThenPaul addresses our speech in verse 4—“neither filthiness, nor foolishtalking, nor coarse jesting.” These are sins of the tongue, and they arenot fitting either. Instead, we are called to give thanks. When we trulyunderstand how blessed we are in Christ—when our hearts are filled withgratitude and appreciation for God's goodness—we will not speak in ways thatare displeasing to Him. Coarsejesting is a form of speech that takes something clean and twists it intosomething dirty through cleverness or wit. People with filthy hearts and mindsdo that. They take what is pure and corrupt it with their words. My friend,that should never characterize Christian conversation. By the grace of God, weavoid these things. Why? Because we are children of light, and we are to walkas children of light. We were once darkness, but now we are light in the Lord.May God help us to understand these truths, to avoid the sins of the flesh andthe sins of the tongue, and to make sure that what we say and what we do bringsglory to God. May we reflect His light to a world that is filled with darkness. 

Jesus exposes the idols of our hearts that lead us to covet, want, and compare. As we grow rich toward God, our grip on what others have loosens, and true freedom and contentment are found in Him.

Topics: Meaning of Antinomianism, New Covenant, Respecting the Law, Role of the Holy Spirit, Gentiles and the Law (Ephesians 2:12), Jesus Sent to Israel, Canaanite Woman Faith (Matthew 15), Old Covenant Audience, 613 Commandments not Just Ten, Born Under the Law (Galatians 4:4-5), Deuteronomy Warning (Deuteronomy 4:2), Blessings and Curses (Deuteronomy 8), End of the Law (Romans 10:4), Rightly Dividing Scripture, Led by the Spirit (Galatians 5:18), Grace not a License to Sin but the Power to Overcome Sin, Law Increases Sin (Romans 5:20), Not Under Law (Romans 6:14), Ministry of Death (2 Corinthians 3), Covetousness and Sin (Romans 7), Grace Teaches Holiness (Titus 2:11-12), Insulting Spirit of Grace (Hebrews 10), Strengthened by Grace (Hebrews 13:9), Excel in Grace (2 Corinthians 8:7), No Condemnation (Romans 8:1), Progressive Sanctification Myth, Commandments in the Law Cannot Perfect Anyone (Hebrews 10:1), Perfected for All Time (Hebrews 10:14), Washed and Sanctified (1 Corinthians 6:11), Law Through Moses (John 1:17), Commandments of Jesus (1 John 3:23), His Commandments are Not Burdensome (1 John 5:3), Transfiguration Meaning (Matthew 17), Strength of Sin (1 Corinthians 15:56), Free Grace is Not a Theology (Romans 11:6)Support the showSign up for Matt's free daily devotional! https://mattmcmillen.com/newsletter

Peculiar people; More than mindless rituals; "Yahweh"; Seeking His kingdom and His righteousness; False teachings; "Altars"; God calling out people; Ekklesia; How to seek the kingdom of God; Repentant Jacob; Melchizedek; Dainties of rulers; Sureties for debt; Error of Baalam/Deeds of Nicolaitan = conquered people; Making the word of God to none effect; Freewill offerings alone; If you want God to hear you…; The "ways"; Free bread?; Corruption; Early Christian practices; Lk 22:25, Mk 10:42, Mt 20:25; 2 Pe 2:3 - becoming merchandise; "Abimelech"; Eyes full of Adultery?; "Corban"; National adultery?; Cursing your children; Isa 42:16; Isa 30:20; Doing what Christ said; Mt 13:13; Mt 15:14 Blind leading the blind; Lk 4:18; Divine spark; "Congregation"; Agreement = one accord; Does your church care about you?; "Burnt offerings"; Owning things in common; Social Safety Net?; Burying false gods; Following Christ; Lev 1:2; King of force? Molech; Faith in the ways of Christ; Free assemblies; Altars of clay; Ex 17:15; Nissi?; Welfare systems; Ex 20:24; CHARITY; Levites; Jude 1:11; The name of Christ; "Religion"; Your duty to God and your fellow man; She song of Moses and of The Lamb; Blind guides; Strengthening the poor; Separate Levites; Burning lamp; Lacking faith; "Aaron"; Fire on the altar?; Wood: ayin-tzedek+yod+mem; Rightly dividing; Gen 1:11; Gen 2:9; Deut 8:7; Ps 1:4; Not burning up sheep!; "Array" = order; Minnesota corruption; Ways of righteousness?; The Real Jesus - are you doing what He said; "Leaven" = Oppresion; Socialism; Lev 1:14; Turtledoves?; tav-resh+yod+mem; 1 Sam 8; Repent!; Create altars of righteousness; burn = kuf-resh-tzedek = Give up entirely; Flow of social welfare - weekly; Check on your neighbor; Christ's commands; Sit in Tens, Hundreds and Thousands; Loving one another; Prophets of the Beast; Sweet Savor unto the LORD? Gen 8:21; Ex 29:18; Laying down your life for your fellowman; Electing rulers; Covetousness; Unrighteousness; Idolatry; Bondage; Mt 20:25; Think like Christ!

Levi Richardson - Covetousness

Today is day 354 and we are studying The Tenth Commandment. 354. How can covetousness lead to other sins? Covetousness begins with discontent and, as it grows in the heart, can lead to sins such as idolatry, adultery, and theft. (2 Samuel 11; 1 Kings 21:1–19; Proverbs 1:8–19; James 1:14–15) We will conclude today by praying the Collect for the Third Sunday in Lent found on page 606 of the Book of Common Prayer (2019). If you would like to buy or download To Be a Christian, head to anglicanchurch.net/catechism. Produced by Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Madison, MS. Original music from Matthew Clark. Daily collects and Psalms are taken from Book of Common Prayer (2019), created by the Anglican Church in North America and published by the Anglican Liturgical Press. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Catechism readings are taken from To Be a Christian - An Anglican Catechism Approved Edition, copyright © 2020 by The Anglican Church in North America by Crossway a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

His Righteousness?; Right reason; Leviticus; God is the same; Kingdom of God = form of government; Instructions to seek it; "World"; Offerings; Meat? Grain?; Imperfect translations; Lesser gods; John the Baptist; Leaven-filled baptisms; Cryptic bible?; Haters; Knowing yourself; Loving your enemy; Our error; Jacob called Israel; The meaning of the mystical story; Leaders; Awakening to the truth; Burnt sacrifice?; Evolution?; Morality; Lev 1:1; Tabernacle of the congregation; Debating; Equality; "Religion"; "Yahweh"; Genocide; Koran; God speaking out of tents of the congregation; "Synagogue"; Having your own house; Returning men to their families and possessions; Altars?; Entangling yourself in the bondage of Egypt; Voluntary offerings; Freewill; State-run social safety nets; Idolatry; The whole truth; Offering = qorban; Hebrew language; Socialism?; Family: Institution of God; Benevolent dictatorship?; Dependency upon government; Taking care of society's needy; "Burnt"?; aleph-tav; kuf-resh-biet-nun+kof+mem; Reason to bring offering; male without blemish?; zayin-kof-resh (male); Without blemish = you own it; Being generous in your sharing; Putting his hand upon it; Burnt offering; Romans 13; Liberty; Helping your neighbor; Diet; No Christian socialists; Detach from the giving - retain freedom; Usage of offerings; Tens, Hundreds and Thousands; Gen 9:5; Early Church social welfare; Temple of Ephesus; Covetousness; Deut 12:27, Deut 19:10; "Strange fire"?; Creating a great nation; Government of, for and by the people; Bible's about government; Character of God; Deeds of Nicolaitans and Error of Baalam; Repentance; Sweet savor?; Choosing your minister; Letting God be the judge; Allowing Holy Spirit to flow through you; Love = Charity; Finding hope; Minister sharing; Join the Living Network.

His Righteousness?; Right reason; Leviticus; God is the same; Kingdom of God = form of government; Instructions to seek it; "World"; Offerings; Meat? Grain?; Imperfect translations; Lesser gods; John the Baptist; Leaven-filled baptisms; Cryptic bible?; Haters; Knowing yourself; Loving your enemy; Our error; Jacob called Israel; The meaning of the mystical story; Leaders; Awakening to the truth; Burnt sacrifice?; Evolution?; Morality; Lev 1:1; Tabernacle of the congregation; Debating; Equality; "Religion"; "Yahweh"; Genocide; Koran; God speaking out of tents of the congregation; "Synagogue"; Having your own house; Returning men to their families and possessions; Altars?; Entangling yourself in the bondage of Egypt; Voluntary offerings; Freewill; State-run social safety nets; Idolatry; The whole truth; Offering = qorban; Hebrew language; Socialism?; Family: Institution of God; Benevolent dictatorship?; Dependency upon government; Taking care of society's needy; "Burnt"?; aleph-tav; kuf-resh-biet-nun+kof+mem; Reason to bring offering; male without blemish?; zayin-kof-resh (male); Without blemish = you own it; Being generous in your sharing; Putting his hand upon it; Burnt offering; Romans 13; Liberty; Helping your neighbor; Diet; No Christian socialists; Detach from the giving - retain freedom; Usage of offerings; Tens, Hundreds and Thousands; Gen 9:5; Early Church social welfare; Temple of Ephesus; Covetousness; Deut 12:27, Deut 19:10; "Strange fire"?; Creating a great nation; Government of, for and by the people; Bible's about government; Character of God; Deeds of Nicolaitans and Error of Baalam; Repentance; Sweet savor?; Choosing your minister; Letting God be the judge; Allowing Holy Spirit to flow through you; Love = Charity; Finding hope; Minister sharing; Join the Living Network.

How subtle greed can shift our focus and quietly distance us from God

The prophet's message in verses 18-20 finished on a high point with the prophet's reminder of Yahweh's steadfast love (chesed) and compassion. Read these verses aloud slowly. Pause and ponder.James 3 continues in a practical vein with the issues we all have in controlling our tongues. He says that teachers have a stricter responsibility, as our words will be discounted by our inconsistent conduct and speech. The only man to have perfectly controlled his tongue was our Lord Jesus Christ. In verses 3-4 two examples of small things controlling great things - the horse is controlled by a small bit in its mouth; and a ship is directed by a small rudder. The tongue is small, but seemingly uncontrollable - a small spark sets a forest ablaze; and likewise, a tiny bit of gossip creates untold havoc. How perverse we are. We praise and thank God, and, with the same tongue slander those made by God in His image. This is contrary to nature as the two examples of verses 11-12 illustrate. Verses 13-18 describe and counsel the use of heavenly wisdom. Wisdom and understanding are demonstrated by meekness (teachableness) - see Psalm 18verses20-28; 25verses1-9). Strife and bitterness, by contrast, come from self-promotion. Although purity proceeds peace (see 2 Kings 9verses19; Isaiah 57verses19-21), this is never an invitation to pummel people into submission. Read verses 17-18 aloud slowly. Pause and ponder. At the end of chapter 3 we saw one cause of strife was self-promotion; in chapter 4 he names several more. Chapter 4 warns against worldliness. He deals with covetousness in the first three verses. A covetous person has no room in their life for God. Interestingly the 10 commandments stand and finish with covetousness - the first, "You shall have no gods before me" (a person's possessions possess them); and the tenth, "You shall not covet".Hence Paul says in Colossians 3verses5, "Covetousness, which is idolatry". Hence covetousness is likened to adultery (chapter 4verses4-5). The jealousy of God for the purity and chastity of believers is captured by the ESV translation of verse 5, "He yearns zealously over the spirit (mind, or attitude) that He has made to dwell in us". Compare this with what the Apostle Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 11verses2-3. The literal Greek of verse 4 is, "adulteresses" (since God is our groom). But for those who graciously submit and draw near to our Father He will show reciprocity in drawing near to them (see 1 Peter 5verses5-11). Humility now will bring future exaltation (compare our Lord Jesus Christ in Philippians 2 verses 1-11). The humble disciple is not one who critically compares oneself with others. From verses 13-17 James reminds us of our vain and transient nature. Therefore, he says, boasting is wrong. All plans we make are "God willing" (subject to His purpose for us). Should we focus on covetousness we have excluded Him from those plans. What we have has been given to us by Him to use in His service. Life is no more permanent than the vapour from the boiling kettle. Don't be arrogant. Place God at the forefront of all your plans.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

 Jim Osman exposes the greed and exploitation of false teachers who use plastic words to merchandise believers. These deceivers appeal to covetousness while masking sensual desires and avarice behind fabricated doctrines. The greed and exploitation of false teachers manifest through fraudulent ministries that prey on vulnerable souls, promising prosperity while extracting wealth. Peter warns that certain judgment awaits these false teachers who exploit others through greed, making contentment the essential defense against their deceptive schemes and plastic words.  ★ Support this podcast ★

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For many people, contentment feels just out of reach—always tied to the next raise, the next purchase, or the next season of life. Yet Scripture calls us to something deeper and more lasting: a contentment that doesn't depend on circumstances but rests in Christ Himself.Psalm 23 begins with a stunning declaration:“The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.” — Psalm 23:1 (NLT)David's words remind us that contentment doesn't come from acquiring more but from trusting the One who provides. Just as sheep rest securely under the care of their shepherd, we can rest in God's faithful provision.True contentment isn't about suppressing desire—it's about redirecting it. When we find sufficiency in Christ rather than in money, possessions, or achievements, we're freed from the trap of covetousness and anchored in the truth that in Him, we already have all we truly need.The Ancient Lie of DiscontentmentDiscontentment has plagued humanity from the beginning. In Eden, Adam and Eve had everything they needed, yet the serpent's lie convinced them they lacked something essential. Discontentment still whispers, “God is holding out on you—you'd be better off if you had more.”Today, that same voice is amplified through advertising, social media, and cultural comparison. We scroll through highlight reels and feel our lives don't measure up. But Hebrews 13:5 offers the antidote:“Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.'”The cure for discontentment isn't having more—it's remembering that God is always with us.The Freedom of “Enough”Contentment is not resignation—it's liberation. It frees us from envy, overspending, and the crushing weight of comparison. Instead of striving endlessly for more, we learn to steward wisely what God has entrusted to us.Proverbs 30:8–9 captures this balanced perspective beautifully:“Give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me…”The wise steward seeks enough—not excess. When we live this way, our financial decisions change. We spend with purpose. We give with joy. We save with peace. Contentment reorients money from being our master to being a tool for God's Kingdom.Think of the widow of Zarephath in 1 Kings 17. With only a handful of flour and a little oil left, she faced famine. Yet when Elijah asked her to make him a cake first, she trusted God's word—and He provided, not with overflowing barns, but with daily sufficiency.Or consider the Macedonian believers in 2 Corinthians 8. Paul wrote,“In a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity.”Despite having little, they gave with glad hearts because their contentment was in Christ, not in their circumstances.These examples remind us that contentment and generosity often go hand in hand. When we are satisfied in Christ, we're free to bless others.Trusting the God Who ProvidesAt the heart of contentment is trust. Jesus said in Matthew 6:25–26,“Do not be anxious about your life… Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?”Contentment flows from believing that God knows what we need and delights to provide for His children. As Elisabeth Elliot once wrote, “The secret is Christ in me, not me in a different set of circumstances.”When Christ becomes our treasure, everything else finds its proper place.That's why Paul could say in 1 Timothy 6:6:“Godliness with contentment is great gain.”Contentment isn't a loss—it's true gain. It's the kind of wealth no market downturn can erase and no thief can steal. Choosing contentment doesn't mean settling for less; it means resting in the sufficiency of Christ.When we stop chasing “more” and start trusting God's daily provision, we discover freedom, peace, and joy. That's the essence of faithful stewardship—not just managing money, but aligning our hearts with the One who promises, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I own several rental properties and would like to leave one to each of my children. I still want to collect the rental income, but I'd like to avoid probate and ensure a smooth transition when I pass away. How can I set up a trust to do that, and what's the best way to move forward?I got divorced in my mid-50s and had to start over from scratch. I'm now 66 with a little over $37,000 in my 401(k), which I'm eligible to roll over into an IRA. I'd really like to invest that money through a biblically based firm, but most of the ones I've contacted require a minimum investment of $50,000. Do you have any suggestions? And how can I build my savings over the next four years? $37,000 won't last long.I'm retired, and my husband will be retiring soon. We don't have a lot saved, but he does have a 401(k) through work. We're unsure what to do with it or how to ensure we'll have enough to live on in retirement. Can you help us think through the next steps?I work with students, and I've offered to invest $4,000, allowing them to choose some stocks to learn how investing works. Since I'll keep the money but let them make the decisions, what's the best way to buy individual stocks for this kind of project?My daughter's credit score is around 625, and she's committed to improving it. My score is over 800, and I've heard that adding her as an authorized user on my credit card could help her. Can you explain how that works and whether it could affect either of our credit scores?I feel completely lost when it comes to finances, but I want to set my family up for success. Can you recommend a reliable resource or starting point for learning the basics of managing money wisely?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Open Hands FinanceFidelity | Charles Schwab | Robinhood | Public | Stash | SoFi InvestYour Money Counts: The Biblical Guide to Earning, Spending, Saving, Investing, Giving, and Getting Out of Debt by Howard DaytonMaster Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment by Ron Blue with Michael BlueRedeeming Money: How God Reveals and Reorients Our Hearts by Paul David TrippMoney, Possessions, and Eternity: A Comprehensive Guide to What the Bible Says about Financial Stewardship, Generosity, Materialism, Retirement, Financial Planning, Gambling, Debt, and More by Randy AlcornWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

When we think about financial threats, inflation, taxes, and debt are often the first that come to mind. But Scripture tells us there's a deeper, more dangerous threat—covetousness. Left unchecked, it poisons our joy, drives us to make poor financial choices, and blinds us to God's generosity.Covetousness is more than wanting what we don't have. It's a disordered desire that whispers: “I must have that to be happy, safe, or fulfilled.” Paul warns in Colossians 3:5, calling covetousness “idolatry.” Why? Because it dethrones God and places possessions on the throne of our hearts.In our finances, covetousness often manifests subtly—comparing our homes to those of our neighbors, upgrading cars that are still running well, or chasing investments out of envy. These patterns reveal misplaced worship.The Antidote: Contentment in ChristThe opposite of covetousness isn't deprivation—it's contentment. In Philippians 4:11–13, Paul testifies that he has learned contentment in every circumstance through Christ's strength.Contentment doesn't come naturally—it's cultivated. And when we trust in God's abundance, we no longer grasp at what others have. Instead, we rest in His provision. Think of Jesus feeding the 5,000: what looked like scarcity became abundance in His hands.Social media magnifies our envy, turning vacations, houses, and life stages into comparison traps. The tenth commandment—“You shall not covet”—goes straight to the heart, reminding us that God cares not just about our actions but about our desires.If you feel this struggle, take heart—you're not alone. The Spirit empowers us to shift from envy to gratitude, from restless striving to restful trust.Practical Steps to Combat CovetousnessFighting covetousness is not about self-shame—it's about redirecting our worship. Here are three practices rooted in Scripture:Practice Gratitude—1 Thessalonians 5:18 calls us to give thanks in all circumstances. Keeping a daily gratitude list shifts focus from what's missing to what God has given. Budget as Worship—A budget isn't just restrictive—it's a discipleship tool. By directing money toward giving, saving, and wise spending, we declare, “Lord, I want You to guide my resources.” Give Generously—Paul urges believers to “be rich in good works, generous and ready to share” (1 Tim. 6:18). Every gift declares that our identity is not in what we own but in who owns us.Redirecting Desire Toward ChristJesus warns in Luke 12:15: “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.” The rich fool who built bigger barns illustrates the danger of letting wealth replace intimacy with God.Covetousness dies when Christ becomes enough. Hebrews 13:5 reminds us: “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for He has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.'”At its root, covetousness is a worship issue. We long for what others have because our hearts are restless for the only One who satisfies. St. Augustine put it well: “You have made us for Yourself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it rests in You.”The cure isn't less desire but rightly directed desire—desire fulfilled in Christ. When we practice gratitude, budget as worship, and live generously, we shift our gaze from possessions that perish to a Savior who is more than enough.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:We sold our house after some delays, but in the meantime, I withdrew funds from my IRA, intending to pay them back within 60 days. Since the sale took longer, are there any IRS rules or options to reduce the taxes on that withdrawal?I'm turning 59½ and retiring early. I have a TSP and the option to roll it into a fixed index annuity with a bonus from Allianz. What's your perspective on this type of annuity?We sold a property through owner financing after owning it for 15 years, though it wasn't our primary residence. When should I report the taxes, and is it treated as a long-term capital gain? Is there any tax benefit to having held it long-term?My sister has money sitting in a savings account that earns very little interest, and my name is also on it. Since she doesn't use email, could I open a joint high-yield online savings account with my email, transfer the funds there, and earn more interest?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Christian Community Credit Union (CCCU)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

One of the greatest threats to our financial and spiritual health isn’t inflation, taxes, or debt—it’s something deeper: covetousness. Left unchecked, it poisons our joy, drives us into unwise financial decisions, and blinds us to God’s generosity. On the next Faith & Finance Live, Rob West explores how to combat covetousness with wisdom from God’s Word. Then, it’s on to your calls. That’s Faith & Finance Live—biblical wisdom for your financial journey. That’s weekdays at 4pm Eastern/3pm Central on Moody Radio. Faith & Finance Live is a listener supported program on Moody Radio. To join our team of supporters, click here.To support the ministry of FaithFi, click here.To learn more about Rob West, click here. To learn more about Faith & Finance Live, click here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.