OCTOBER 11: THE EVIL OF JEALOUSY

Many years ago, a sister came to me in tears to confess her feelings of resentment towards another sister in the choir because of her outstanding gift of singing. It had come to a point where anytime this other sister was asked to lead worship, this sister would be overcome with jealousy and bitterness. I empathized with her but showed her from the word of God why such feelings were dangerous and how God can help her overcome it. We prayed together and I became her accountability partner on that matter. Over time, by the help of the Holy Spirit she overcame her resentment, embraced her own gift and began to shine in her own way. Above all, she and that sister became really close and lifelong friends. Jealousy is resentful envy that leads to evil feelings, actions and intentions towards another person. It is an evil and destructive emotion that can seriously harm not just the object of jealousy but the jealous person themselves. Other terrible emotions that flow out of jealousy such as bitterness, anger, hatred, malice are not only sinful and displeasing to God but can damage our health, leading to terrible diseases. It may be a natural instinct to feel a twinge of envy towards the candidate who was successful in that job or contract interview you also participated in, but allowing that feeling to rise to the level of resentment is dangerous.

Cain’s jealousy towards Abel led to his killing of his brother. The brothers of Joseph were so resentful of their father’s love for him that it led them to sell him into slavery. We may not be able to control a passing feeling of envy at the good fortune of others, especially if they have attained something we desire for ourselves but we must not allow it to get to the point of resentment. When faced with the tendency to be envious and jealous:
1. Pray and ask the Holy Spirit to help you
2. Think of the many ways God has blessed you too and be thankful
3. If it is a gift/talent the other person has, enjoy and celebrate it as you embrace and work on the gifts God has given you too.
4. Remember that God is a God of process. He is no respecter of persons. Trust Him and trust the process. Your time will come.
5. Your genuine joy for that person will please God and trigger His blessings upon you
6. Find a trusted Christian to share with and pray with you.

Prayer: Father, forgive me for the sins of envy and jealousy, for not trusting in your providence. Uproot this evil seed from my heart and soul and help me to live a life of gratitude to You and sincere love towards everyone, celebrating Your grace and blessing on their lives as I embrace Your gifts and callings in mine. Amen!