How does 1 Samuel 18:9 connect to the commandment against coveting in Exodus 20:17? Scripture Focus 1 Samuel 18:9 — “And from that day forward Saul kept a jealous eye on David.” Exodus 20:17 — “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.” Scene in 1 Samuel 18 • God grants David victory over Goliath and favor with the people (18:5–7). • Saul hears the women singing, “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands” (18:7). • Instead of rejoicing, Saul grows angry, feels threatened, and begins to “keep a jealous eye” on David (18:8–9). • That jealous watching turns into murderous plots (18:10–11; 19:1). Coveting Defined in Exodus 20:17 • To covet is to set an inordinate desire on what God has given to someone else. • The commandment covers possessions, relationships, status—“anything that belongs to your neighbor.” • It addresses heart-level longing before any outward sin occurs. How the Two Passages Connect • Saul’s “jealous eye” reveals coveting of David’s honor and success. • Coveting births comparison: Saul measures his worth by David’s praise. • Exodus warns that unchecked desire for a neighbor’s advantage leads to further sin; Saul’s envy slides into attempted murder (1 John 3:12). • The narrative illustrates the commandment’s purpose: protecting hearts from destructive envy. Supporting Scriptures • Proverbs 14:30 — “A tranquil heart is life to the body, but envy is rottenness to the bones.” • James 3:16 — “For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice.” • Galatians 5:26 — “Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying one another.” Practical Takeaways • Recognize coveting early: a “jealous eye” is a red flag. • Celebrate others’ God-given victories instead of comparing. • Guard your heart with gratitude (1 Thessalonians 5:18). • Submit desires to the Lord; He supplies all we need (Philippians 4:19). |
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