Have you ever wondered what causes envy? On the surface, it may seem like simply a reaction that occurs when we want something another person has. But it actually goes much deeper than this: The real root is resentment that God hasn’t provided for us what He has given someone else.
Jealousy arises from a heart overcome by:
• Greed. We become discontent with what God has given to us, and we want what other people have, believing that will make us happy.
• Selfishness. We compare ourselves to others, and instead of rejoicing with them, we focus on our own life and what we don’t have.
• Pride. Seeing the success of other people makes us feel inadequate, and in an attempt to build ourselves up, we belittle them and their accomplishments.
Jealousy and envy can cause great damage to relationships and spiritual health. That’s why it is important to act quickly, correcting such attitudes before they become a habit. At the first awareness of such a mindset, confess it as sin and acknowledge God’s right to bless someone else abundantly. Then express gratitude for what He has given you, and ask Him to help you rejoice with others He has blessed.
A Devotional from InTouchCanada.org