At three years of age, Phil thought, "If only I could have that toy, then I would be happy!"
At ten years, he thought, "If only I could have a ten speed bicycle, then I would be happy!"
At eighteen, he thought, "If only I could have a car like that, then I would be happy!"
Phil received each of these items, but not the lasting happiness and contentment he was seeking. Why not?
Benjamin Franklin once gave a poor young boy a nice apple. The child received it with much thankfulness. He then gave the boy a second apple. The happy child held one apple in each hand. He then gave the boy a third and a fourth apple.
The poor boy struggled to carry all four, but continually dropped first one, then another; frustrated, he finally broke into tears.
Mr. Franklin commented to those observing, "Notice this, a little man with more riches than he can enjoy!"
What lesson regarding covetousness can be learned from this illustration?
For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
- Romans 8:6
For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
- Romans 14:17
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith.
- Galatians 5:22
Better is little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble therewith.
- Proverbs 15:16
But godliness with contentment is great gain.
- I Timothy 6:6
Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.
