26th April 2025

26th April 2025


Pray (ACts)


Read (Exodus 20v17)


Message (Scott Woodburn)


If you can remember as far back as Thursday then you perhaps recall that the Larger Catechism’s  description of the tenth commandment’s duties was relatively short. In similar fashion the discussion about what is forbidden by the commandment is just one sentence long. “What are the sins forbidden in the tenth commandment? The sins forbidden in the tenth commandment are, discontentment with our own estate; envying, and grieving at the good of our neighbor, together with all inordinate motions and affections to anything that is his.”


Now you’d think that we could handle one sentence but truth be told discontentment is an all too familiar feeling. Perhaps our work has been a chore for several years, maybe a relationship isn’t all we hoped for or we’re maybe just sick of sitting in Ballynahinch traffic. Can we say that contentment abounds in our soul? I’m not suggesting for a moment that just because you’re grumpy in traffic that you have left the tenth commandment behind but do you display a persistent attitude of poor-me-ism? Nothing is ever your fault, nothing is ever right and nothing ever pleases you. Is this how you’ve been for longer than you can remember? Equally if you are grieved by your neighbour’s prosperity and find yourself resentful of his/her estate isn’t it perhaps time to do business with the Lord?


Brothers and sisters, I’m not writing this to bash you. As I’ve formed these words I’ve had to consider my own soul. I have much to be thankful for and yet I’m often frustrated, disappointed and begrudging. I regularly find my mind wondering “if only” and “what if” and “why me.” May God forgive me and may the Spirit cultivate in me an attitude of gratitude and contentment. Indeed, even if my plans fall whilst my neighbour soars, may I have the grace to be thankful.


In the Gospel we have received the greatest treasure imaginable. Delight your soul in Jesus and never forget that He is more than enough. 


Pray (acTS)


Sing


WSC


Q68 What is required in the sixth commandment? The sixth commandment requireth all lawful endeavours to preserve our own life, and the life of others.
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