0842, Two Ways to Be Unhappy

Why You’re Unhappy Even After You Get What You WantWhy can getting what we want sometimes leave us more disappointed than before?In this message, W. D. Frazee explores the Tenth Commandment—“Thou shalt not covet”—and presents a striking principle: there are two ways to be unhappy. We can be unhappy because we want something that does not belong to us, or we can finally get what we wanted and discover that it was never meant for us in the first place.Drawing from Scripture and practical examples, Frazee shows that God’s commandments are not arbitrary restrictions but expressions of divine wisdom designed for our happiness. Rather than deciding what we want and asking God to bless our plans, he challenges us to discover what God has planned for us and allow our desires to be shaped accordingly.The sermon considers covetousness in relation to money, possessions, marriage and courtship, position, competition, parenting, and even religious responsibilities. Through the experiences of Balaam, Achan, Jacob, and others, Frazee illustrates the sorrow that follows when we insist on having our own way.At the heart of the message is a call to trust God:“My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from Him.”—Psalm 62:5If something truly belongs within God’s purpose for your life, Frazee argues, you do not need to manipulate circumstances, compete with others, or grasp for it. You can faithfully do your part and trust God with the outcome.Scripture ReferencesPsalm 1:1–2Exodus 20:171 Corinthians 12:31Colossians 3:2Matthew 3:10Malachi 3:101 Timothy 6:10Psalm 62:5ThemesThe Tenth CommandmentCovetousness and contentmentWhy getting what we want can still leave us unhappyTrusting God’s planWaiting on GodDesire and selfishnessCompetition and rivalryMarriage and courtshipStewardship and titheChristian parentingFinding happiness in God’s willSpeaker: W. D. FrazeeOriginal Study: 0842 — Two Ways to Be UnhappyDate Given: July 1, 1960