THE HIDDEN DANGER OF COVETOUSNESS
JULY 2, 2025
TEXT: Joshua 7:20-26; Proverbs 4:23
KEY VERSE:
When I saw among the spoils a goodly Babylonish garment, and two hundred shekels of silver, and a wedge of gold of fifty shekels weight, then I coveted them, and took them; and, behold, they are hid in the earth in the midst of my tent, and the silver under it. Joshua 7:21
Desire is a powerful force, capable of driving our actions and choices. When our desires are rooted in sin, however, they can lead us down a dark path. Achan’s story is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of giving in to sinful desires. In order to avoid falling into temptation, we must guard our eyes, ears, and hearts, ensuring that our desires are aligned with God’s will and not our own selfish ambitions.
Temptation can arise from a variety of sources. Sometimes it comes in the form of material possessions, like the Babylonish garment that tempted Achan. Other times it may come in the form of sinful thoughts, desires, or circumstances. Whatever the source, temptation is a real and present danger that we must be vigilant against. To resist temptation, we must rely on God’s strength and wisdom, cultivating self-discipline and a strong relationship with Him.
“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” – Proverbs 4:23. This verse emphasises that our hearts determine the path our lives take. If we allow sinful thoughts and desires to take root in our hearts, they will lead us away from God’s will and toward destruction. It is essential, then, for us to protect our hearts by cultivating a strong relationship with God and resisting the temptations that arise from covetousness.
Covetousness can take many forms: envy, greed, lust, and more. Achan’s desire for a beautiful Babylonish garment, two hundred shekels of silver, and a wedge of gold weighing fifty shekels led him to covet what he shouldn’t have, resulting in the loss of everything he held dear. Achan’s covetousness led to devastating consequences for himself and for the nation of Israel.
“And the men of Ai smote of them about thirty and six men: for they chased them from before the gate even unto Shebarim, and smote them in the going down: wherefore the hearts of the people melted, and became as water.” – Joshua 7:5. His sin caused Israel to be defeated at Ai, leading to the deaths of 36 men. When Achan’s sin was exposed, he, along with his family, was executed for their disobedience.
“And all Israel stoned him with stones, and burned them with fire, after they had stoned them with stones.” – Joshua 7:25. In a single day, Achan’s covetousness destroyed his family and endangered the entire nation of Israel.
To avoid the destructive consequences of sin and covetousness, let us remember Achan’s example and be mindful of our thoughts and desires. By guarding our hearts with God’s Word, resisting temptation, and avoiding things that tempt us, we can stay faithful to God and build a legacy of righteousness. Let us strive to live a life that reflects the glory of God, rather than one of sin and destruction.
SEARCH LIGHT: Resist temptation and avoid covetous desires to preserve a Godly legacy.
PRAYER: Lord, help me resist temptation, avoid covetous desires, and live in obedience to You, that I may leave a godly legacy.
BIBLE READING:
Psalms 89-91, 1 Peter 5
PASTOR MICHAEL OMOLE
