Unlawful Desire

Biblical Church Worship: A Study of the Ten Commandments 
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Exodus 20:17
The Tenth Commandment: You Shall Not Covet Unlawfully
Reading: Psalm 37:1-40; Proverbs 2:1-5; Proverbs 6:20-35; James 1;13-15

You Shall Not Covet Unlawfully
There is nothing wrong with want or desire, which are simply euphemisms for “covet”. A desire is only as good or evil as that upon which it is set. If one craves something good, coveting is lawful. In contrast, the coveting of that which is unlawful is sin.

The tenth commandment, like the commandment prohibiting adultery, finds its roots in the heart. It condemns the craving of that which is forbidden. This final commandment reminds us that sin involves both outward actions which begin with inward desire. And it is our inner person, with his or her evil desires, which labels us as rebels against God.

God sets the boundaries of holiness. Sin is mankind’s response to exceed the boundaries which God has established. Whenever we set our hearts upon disobedience, we have already transgressed God’s law in our hearts.

Implication
Man cannot serve two masters (Luke 16:13). God’s command to people is that they serve (worship) only Him. It is impossible to worship God if we desire things displeasing to Him. God calls us to let go of everything else we hold dear and love Him above all.

Questions to ask Yourself
1. Are my desires pleasing to God?
2. What do I desire above Christ Jesus?
3. Am I willing to fulfil my desires my way or God’s way?