Lord’s Day 44
Q113. What does the tenth commandment require?
That not even the smallest thought or desire against any of God's commandments should ever come into my heart. Instead, with all my heart I should always hate sin and love what is right.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Psalm 19:7–14
“The law of the LORD perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the LORD right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the LORD clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD true righteous altogether. More to be desired than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is thy servant warned: in keeping of them great reward. Who can understand errors? cleanse thou me from secret . Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous ; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression. Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.”
Psalm 139:23–24
“Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
Romans 7:7–8
“What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead.”
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
What does the tenth commandment say about our desires, not just our actions?
- 2
Why does God care about even the smallest wrong desire in our hearts?
- 3
What is something you have wanted that belongs to someone else?
Illustration
Coveting is like an itch you keep scratching until it becomes a wound. It starts small. You see something someone else has, and you wish it were yours. Left alone, that wish can grow into jealousy, bitterness, or even stealing. God wants to stop the itch before it becomes a wound.
Application
When you notice yourself wishing you had what someone else has, stop and thank God for three things he has already given you. Because the tenth commandment guards the heart, practicing gratitude is one of the best medicines for coveting.