Coveting Quote by Neal A. Maxwell
“Stubborn selfishness leads otherwise good people to fight over herds, patches of sand, and strippings of milk. All this results from what the Lord calls coveting "the drop," while neglecting the "more weighty matters." (D&C 117:8) Myopic selfishness magnifies a mess of pottage and makes thirty pieces of silver look like a treasure trove. In our intense acquisitiveness, we forget Him who once said, "What is property unto me?"”
About This Quote
Source Scripture: Doctrine and Covenants 117:8, 1835
Selfish desire for trivial gains blinds people to deeper spiritual priorities, turning modest resources into false treasures.
In simple terms: Coveting small things distracts from greater spiritual matters.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize lasting values over fleeting gains.
Themes
spirituality
selfishness
materialism
priorities
faith
Mood
thoughtful
inspirational
serious
Type
scriptural
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- sermon preparation
- faith counseling
- ethical decision making
- community study
Key Concepts
coveting
myopia
acquisitiveness
prophetic teaching
moral focus
Questions to Reflect On
- What truly matters beyond material wealth?
- How can we balance personal needs with spiritual growth?
A Different Perspective
The passage may not address systemic causes of inequality beyond individual behavior.
