P056 Covetous
Covetous
[2Tim 3:1-2; Eccl 5:10; Dt 8:18]
In Second Timothy 3:2 we studied the phrase “lovers of their own selves,” and it gave us a heads-up to the primary sign that we are in the very last days. The sign of excessive self-love is at the head of Paul’s list of characteristics of the degenerate society in the last days.
The other evils listed in this verse come out of the self-centered, self-consumed, self-love. For example, Paul next stated that society at the end of the age will be “covetous.” This word “covetous” is the Greek word philarguros – a word similar to the word philautos used to depict “lovers of their own selves.”
2 Timothy 3:1-2 (KJV) – This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. [2] For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
As we saw earlier, the word phileo means to love or to be fond of, and it means the love, fondness, attraction or romantic feelings one has for another. This word describes a deep and profound love that is directed toward someone else.
But the second part of this word is argurus, which is the Greek word for silver or money, refers to material possessions. Compounded, these words become philarguros – a word that depicts an inordinate love for money, an abnormal preoccupation with money, or a profound fixation on material possessions. This word describes an insatiable desire to always have more and more.
Ecclesiastes 5:10 (KJV) – He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver….
A covetous person always wants more and will never be satisfied, regardless of how much he accumulates.
I am certain that it is God’s will to bless and prosper His people. However, we must never forget that the Bible warns us, “If riches increase, set not your heart upon them” (Ps 62:10).
Deuteronomy 8:18 (KJV) – But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day.
Establishing God’s covenant should be the priority for every believer! But if any believer has fallen into the trap of selfishness, is never satisfied and always wanting more, he should evaluate whether he has been deluded by the spirit of the age.
We have to guard ourselves from falling into covetousness, which is obvious in society during these last days. It must be first priority concerning our resources to give into God’s work as He leads. We are responsible to support the preaching of the Gospel, and spreading the Good News to the ends of the earth!
In Matthew 6:21. Jesus said. “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” In other words, follow your money and you’ll find out where your heart is, and will disclose what you really love and treasure.
Prayer:
Father, I see the wealthy that are in love with themselves to the point of self-worship. They sacrifice the opportunity to bless others, and lavish things upon themselves. Rich men are flying on rockets into space for sport. The affluent long to rule over the nations and the world. Their greediness drives them to obtain more and more.
Lord, I know I have gotten into selfishness from time to time. Help me stay on track, and to examine myself. Holy Spirit, search my heart and show me any signs of greed or selfishness.
I refuse to fall prey to the self-focused, self-absorbed spirit of the age. Lord give me strength to take action to guard my heart, so that covetousness never finds a place in my life. I want to remember the needs of others!
I pray in faith, in the name of Jesus, amen.
God bless you my friend,
