The Grass Is Not Always Greener

“Be not thou envious against evil men, neither desire to be with them. For their heart studieth oppression, and their lips talk of mischief” Proverbs 24:1-2.

You know you have heard the expression, “The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence.” A Christian needs to examine this saying a little closer. If you remember a few Sunday mornings ago that we discussed the sin of covetousness. I want to bring back to your mind that covetousness is desiring something that is not yours, and also it is desiring something that you cannot have. God’s warnings are throughout the Scriptures. New Testament Christians must remember we cannot have the life of the wicked.

Through the Inspired Word he declares do not be envious against evil men. Why would we envy evil men? Why would we want anything that evil men enjoy? Sometimes it’s the case that we want the benefits of their evil. A Christian who is not wealthy might look at the riches of the wicked and be willing to walk away from the Lord. A Christian who is young and who wants to be popular might look at the popularity of the wicked and be willing to walk away from the Lord. A Christian might look at worldly religions and be willing to walk away from the Lord.

Jehovah tells us that we cannot be envious of them. Why? Their hearts studieth oppression and their lips talk of mischief. Why would we seek the same things that hurt so many? If a man steps over all people to get rich, is he not an oppressor? If a man will do anything for popularity, is it not evil? If a man will teach a doctrine that is not sound just to gain followers, is that not mischief? Do they not oppress the unlearned that follow their talk? The Lord’s way is far better.

“Through wisdom is a house builded, and by understanding it is established, And by knowledge are the chambers filled with all precious and pleasant riches. A wise man is strong. Yea, a man of knowledge increaseth might” (Proverbs 24:3-6).

We can be secure in this world and thereafter if we would only seek the wisdom of the Lord. By knowledge are the chambers filled. The riches of life eternal are built on the knowledge of the Lord. If one wants to be strong and mighty, the only way is the knowledge that comes from the Lord. Christian, do not envy the wicked.

Grace and Peace,

R.D. Beavers

8/14/22 Sermon on Covetousness:

https://www.grovechurchofchrist.org/sermons-and-bible-study-audio-2022.html

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