Search Shepherd Thoughts Articles
Living for an Audience of One: Overcoming the Desire for Praise from Others
Learn how to overcome the temptation of coveting praise and affirmation from others by exploring the example of the Pharisees in John 12:42-43. Discover how to seek approval from God alone (Galatians 1:10) and value His opinion above all (Matthew 6:1-4).
Resisting the Lure of Comfort: Overcoming the Temptation to Covet an Easy Life
Explore how to overcome the temptation to covet comfort and ease by learning from the Israelites’ longing for Egypt’s comforts (Exodus 16:3). Discover how to embrace perseverance through hardship (James 1:2-4) and focus on the eternal rest that awaits believers (Hebrews 4:9-11).
From Comparison to Contentment: Overcoming the Desire to Covet Someone’s Talents
Discover how to overcome the temptation of coveting someone else’s talents by exploring the story of Cain and Abel (Genesis 4:3-8). Learn the importance of practicing gratitude for your own gifts (1 Corinthians 12:14-26) and using your abilities for God’s glory (Matthew 25:14-30).
Embracing Your Own Calling: Overcoming the Temptation to Covet Another's Ministry
Explore how to overcome the temptation of coveting another's ministry or calling by learning from Aaron and Miriam's jealousy of Moses (Numbers 12). Discover the importance of celebrating the diversity of gifts within the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:4-6) and finding contentment in your unique purpose (Ephesians 2:10).
When Wealth Becomes a Trap: Overcoming the Desire for Financial Success
Learn how to overcome the temptation to covet financial success through the story of the rich young ruler in Mark 10:17-22. Discover the freedom of living with a mindset of stewardship (1 Timothy 6:6-10) and focusing on eternal treasures (Matthew 6:19-21).
Beyond the Mirror: Overcoming the Temptation to Covet Beauty and Physical Appearance
Learn how to overcome the temptation of coveting beauty or physical appearance by exploring Rachel's envy of Leah in Genesis 30:1. Discover the biblical perspective on inner beauty (1 Peter 3:3-4) and how to appreciate the unique way God has created you (Psalm 139:14).
When Knowledge Becomes a Tool for Power: Overcoming the Temptation to Covet Influence
Explore the story of Simon the Sorcerer coveting the power of the apostles in Acts 8:18-19, and learn how to pursue knowledge and influence for the right reasons. Discover how wisdom should lead to service, not self-gain, with insights from James 1:5 and Proverbs 2:6.
When Jealousy Strikes: How to Stop Coveting Others’ Success and Embrace Your Own Path
Learn how to overcome the temptation to covet others' success through the biblical example of Saul's jealousy of David (1 Samuel 18:6-9). Discover how rejoicing in others' victories (Romans 12:15) and trusting God's purpose for your life (Jeremiah 29:11) can lead to true contentment.
The Danger of Desiring Power: Overcoming the Temptation to Covet Leadership
Explore the dangers of coveting power and position through the biblical story of Korah’s rebellion (Numbers 16). Learn how to cultivate humility (Philippians 2:3-4) and trust God’s plan for promotion (Psalm 75:6-7).
Guarding Your Heart: Overcoming the Temptation of Coveting Another Person’s Spouse
Learn how to overcome the temptation of coveting another person’s spouse by exploring David’s sin with Bathsheba in 2 Samuel 11. Discover biblical principles on honoring marriage and guarding the heart against lust.
Breaking Free from the Grip of Greed: Overcoming Coveting Material Possessions
Discover how to overcome the dangers of coveting material possessions through biblical wisdom. Explore Achan's story in Joshua 7 and learn how contentment in Christ and generosity can break the cycle of greed.
Why Pursuing Virtue Matters More Than Talent: Lessons from Absalom and King David
Discover the powerful contrast between Absalom’s ambition and King David’s virtue in 2 Samuel 15. Learn why pursuing humility, selflessness, and trust in God leads to lasting success, while selfish ambition only brings temporary gain and destruction.
When Loved Ones Sin: How to Respond with Truth, Grace, and Restoration
Learn how to respond biblically to the sins of others through the story of King David and Absalom in 2 Samuel 14. Discover key principles for handling sin with truth, grace, and a heart focused on restoration.
Finding God in Seasons of Silence: Trusting When God Seems Distant
Discover practical steps and biblical insights for finding hope and maintaining faith during seasons when God feels distant. Learn how to trust God in the silence and grow spiritually through these challenging times.
Understanding the Role of the Holy Spirit in Daily Life
Discover how to cultivate a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit in your daily life. Learn practical ways to rely on His guidance, comfort, and conviction to grow in your faith and love for God.
Help! There’s No Kids in Our Church (Questions to Ask)
Struggling to attract families to your church? Discover practical steps and key questions to make your church a welcoming place for children and parents. Learn how to create a family-friendly environment that resonates with your community.
Dealing with Sin: Lessons from David's Fall
Discover the story of King David’s fall from grace in 2 Samuel and learn how to respond righteously when confronted with personal sin. This blog post explores the wrong and right ways to deal with sin, offering biblical insights and practical applications for living a life of repentance and grace.
Embodying Wisdom: Character Traits of a Wise Person from the Book of James
Discover the essential traits of a wise person as outlined in the book of James. Learn how humility, peace, consideration, mercy, and more can transform your life and relationships. Dive into practical wisdom and biblical insights to embody these characteristics daily.
Finding Biblical Responses to Despair: Lessons from David's Journey
Discover biblical insights on responding to despair through the lens of David's journey in 1 Samuel 21-22. Explore practical lessons on maintaining integrity, finding hope in God's promises, and extending grace amidst adversity.
Finding Duty Amidst Chaos: Living Biblically in a World of Turmoil
Learn how to navigate life's chaos with biblical wisdom. Explore insights from the story of David in 1 Samuel 23:1–13, discovering how to transition from disorder to duty amidst uncertainty. Gain practical tips for embracing responsibility, acknowledging God's sovereignty, and promoting righteousness in a chaotic world.