Jealousy
Jealousy is a sin. The Bible teaches, “Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant” (1 Corinthians 13:4). The emotions of jealousy cause strife and division, and are contrary to the teachings of Jesus, for He taught men to love one another and live together in unity (John 15:12; 17:22; 1 John 3:23).
We all question sometimes: why do some people have it easier than others? As Christians, we should stop and notice that the more we allow ourselves to compare ourselves with others, the more we forget our high calling in Christ (Philippians 2:3). In everything we do or think, we must be “Christ like.”
We should always remember that Jesus the King of Kings left everything in heaven to come to this earth and save us (John 3:16). He didn’t even have a place to stay. For He said “Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head” (Luke 9:58). We are to walk as He walked.
When jealousy attacks us, we should meditate on the gift of our heavenly Father, “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? (Romans 8:32). If God didn’t hesitate to put everything on the line for us, embracing our condition and exposing Himself to the worst by sending His own Son – is there anything else He wouldn’t gladly and freely do for us? (Romans 8:32).
Before getting tempted with jealousy, we should realize that we have more than enough. Jesus taught us to pray “Give us each day our daily bread” (Luke 11:3). We just have to remember to give thanks to Him in all things. When we are content, we don’t sin. The sin of not having enough, is cured when we give thanks for we have more than enough grace (2 Corinthians 12:19).
It’s always the relentless desire for more that destroys our happiness. The apostle James explained, “But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic” (James 3:14-15).
Therefore, celebrate God’s goodness for when our hearts are full with gratitude we’ll have no room for jealousy. “They shall utter the memory of thy great goodness, And shall sing of thy righteousness” (Psalm 145:7). Paul exhorts the believers, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4).
In His service,
BibleAsk Team
