Greed and the desire for power were key drivers that led to World War I, demonstrating the destructive nature of unchecked ambition and covetousness.

The early 1900s saw multiple empires—Austrian, German, Russian, French, British, and Ottoman—competing for territory and international influence. Despite controlling vast regions across Africa, Asia, and the Americas, these empires' insatiable appetite for expansion persisted.

Germany's pursuit of Weltmacht ("world power") under Kaiser Wilhelm II exemplified this dangerous ambition. Their goal to surpass the British Empire's dominance became a crucial factor in igniting the war.

The Bible warns about greed's destructive nature: "So are the ways of everyone who is greedy for gain; it takes away the life of its owners" (Proverbs 1:19). This proved prophetic—only two of the six warring empires survived the conflict.

Covetousness, the desire for what we don't have or shouldn't have, violates the 10th Commandment and often leads to devastating consequences. The Bible equates it to idolatry (Colossians 3:5-7) because it prioritizes selfish desires over godly principles.

James 4:1-2 reveals the root cause of conflicts: "Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members? You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain."

While the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand sparked World War I, the underlying causes were rooted in greed, territorial ambition, and the pursuit of power. This historical lesson demonstrates how unchecked greed can lead to catastrophic consequences, both for nations and individuals.

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