One of the benefits of reading the whole Bible (instead of just small bits of it) is that you begin to gain a clearer understanding of certain concepts. Each time a biblical author mentions something about a specific word or idea it helps you understand more about it.Take, for example, the idea of coveting. The … Continue reading Life is more than possessions
envy
The Coveting Thief
I’ve been spending a lot of time thinking about the Ten Commandments. Commandment number ten says “You shall not covet…” (Exodus 20:17).Coveting is desiring or taking deep pleasure in something that belongs to someone else. It’s a heart issue. It is internal. Coveting is closely related to envy. Let’s focus on a few key ideas related … Continue reading The Coveting Thief
Envy rots the bones
Before I share today’s devotional let me offer a quick reminder that The Up Devotional is going on pause after today for four weeks. I’m having some vacation time! It returns on August 29th. You can listen to past devotionals as a podcast wherever you subscribe, or you can read text versions at TheUpDevo.com. Here … Continue reading Envy rots the bones
Feeding the envy beast
We’ve been thinking about invisible robbers who steal your contentment. Yesterday, I highlighted some studies about social media use and how it can bring down your mood. Unfortunately, by constantly seeing what people post, we can fall into a trap of perpetual comparison and envy. As a result, it can drag us down. Because of … Continue reading Feeding the envy beast
Social media torture = less contentment
We’ve been thinking about invisible robbers who steal your contentment. And more specifically, one who tries to convince you to put too much stock in (a) comparing yourself to others (in person or online), and (b) the judgments and criticisms of others. It’s definitely a big topic. Alain de Bottom wrote a book about “Status … Continue reading Social media torture = less contentment
Cheerleading envy, losing the farm, and Jesus
This week I’ve been talking about how spiritually RICH we are because of our identity in Jesus and all the eternal and spiritual blessings he gives us. It’s good to ruminate on this perspective-shifting fact because our society spins and weaves a different story: that material things are more important than spiritual things. I heard … Continue reading Cheerleading envy, losing the farm, and Jesus
Having it all
Yesterday I highlighted something that can rob us of our contentment: always being reminded of what others have (but we don’t). We can sometimes feel bitter when think other people have better stuff, better experiences, better relationships, and better everything. But when you focus on what you DO have you’re less likely to be downcast … Continue reading Having it all
Guarding against the noose of envy
Being thankful is harder than it seems. But it’s worth it. It can exponentially improve your outlook. And, as I’ll explain on Sunday, intentional gratitude can even play a significant role in improving your mental health. But a part of the reason it can be hard to cultivate an attitude of gratitude is because there … Continue reading Guarding against the noose of envy
