Grass Yonder GreenerSýnishorn

No Exceptions

In the corporate world, when a group of people gathers during recess, there is lobbying and gossiping. There was a group of women in the corporate circle who were always boisterous. One day the group was unusually silent. When the others wondered why they were silent, someone jovially remarked, "It’s because all the women were present that day!" Happily, people comment on another man’s wealth, property, or jewelry. We should be careful when we comment about others. It is best to refrain from ungodly gossiping. (Ps 1:1)

We have to be on our guard to avoid gossip. When we sow seeds of discord, we are bound to reap that in plenty. What we should not forget is that ‘Evil will eventually destroy itself.' In the world around us, we have many worldly-wise men who keep bragging about their pursuit, plan, and achievements. When we maintain a clear conscience, then God would teach us to make the correct decisions.

Even a king with all his wealth and grandeur finds another man’s vineyard appealing (I Kgs 21). Hence, irrespective of our official position(s), greed can get the better of us, at unguarded moments. 

It is good to take time to examine ourselves. Godliness with contentment is a Biblical principle. By providing manna, the Lord met the Israelites’ actual physical needs. Everyone had gathered just as much as they needed (Ex 16:18). In other words, God is able to meet the exact needs of His children.

Here, Ahab asked for Naboth’s vineyard. Naboth replied, The Lord forbid (I Kgs 21:3). What was Ahab’s response? He felt angry and sullen when Naboth refused to part with the property of his forefathers. There was an attitude problem with Ahab, though there was a just reason behind Naboth’s refusal, the vineyard being a familial inheritance. More so, at the intervention of Jezebel, his ungodly wife, Ahab approved the murder of an innocent man. Naboth was stoned to death outside the city on false charges. (vv 8-14)

We think that covetousness is nothing. But look at the end of Queen Jezebel. She was devoured by dogs. King Ahab was not spared either (I Kgs 22:34-38). Covetousness has no place in godliness.

Lord, help us since no one is spared when they go against Your principles. Forgive us and help us to walk in Your ways. Amen