Eminent Domain

Eminent domain is mentioned in the Bible! In today's reading, we see a selfish, covetous, and corrupt politician who is only concerned about one person: himself. He is also prone to temper tantrums. Times haven't changed, have they? Notice Ahab's response when the owner of a vineyard wouldn't sell him his land. He went home angry and sullen — a royal pity party fit. (1 Kings 21:3–4)

The king's wife, however, will have none of it. How dare Ahab have to experience denial! So, she conspires against Naboth and has him killed. Notice this magical turn of events. (1 Kings 21:15–16, NLT) Ahab, what a covetous king! You don't suppose he already had enough? How much more does he want? To the covetous, there is no such thing as enough. 

Notice the power of covetousness in the life of a selfish person. Their mood is affected. They are easily irritated. They get angry when they don't get what they want. They even act childish. How beneath a king to act like he did, going to bed early, pouting, refusing to eat. Wow! The only thing a selfishly driven, covetous person sees is their eminent domain. Life is all about them. Ultimately, covetousness destroys its host (1 Kings 21:17–19). What a powerful reminder to guard against this evil!