Grow - Edition #5

So I was reading Piper again today and came across this great blog post. It speaks of how we overcome (or avoid falling into) coveting or desiring something more than God.

For example, common things we might desire more than being in the presence of God includes
1. Long term financial security
2. Material possessions; enhanced lifestyle
3. Comfort
4. Praise of man; acceptance
5. A different marriage (different spouse; spouse change; etc)
6. Control of circumstances

The list could go on and on. I like how Piper defines bad coveting as desiring something in a way that it deminishes our desire for God or or competes for God's supreme place in our lives. So there is room for coveting, if the coveting draws us closer to God and increases His centering in our lives. For example, coveting a cleaner schedule to allow for more consistent and less rished time in the Word is a good thing! So is coveting solid friends around you to help you grow in Christ.

Piper then really hammers two points to help us "keep the main thing the main thing." First, he says we need to be in the Word and know the Word to lean on God's promises (Psalm 119:11). Second, we need people in our lives to model Christlikeness for us (1 Corinthians 11:1).

So three questions for each of you
1. What are the most common idols in your life aside from Christ?
2. How is your time in the Word and trusting in His Word throughout life's circumstances?
3. Who are the people in your life whom you are studying? Are you authentic with them to allow for deep, prodcutive relationships?

Praying for all of us.