jealousy anyone?

Recently I was asked "So what exactly is wrong with jealousy besides being wrong? and thought it was a good question; at least one i'd never been asked or thought on much before.

I think it begins with its definition. I believe that ultimately jealousy is when we resent God’s goodness in other’s lives and ignore God’s goodness in our own lives. So, being jealous means being envious of other people’s blessings whatever that may be (possessions, privileges, popularity, position, success).

As Israel was celebrating the goodness of God Saul was unable to enjoy the moment. "When the men were returning home after David had killed the Philistine, the women came out from all the towns of Israel to meet King Saul, with tambourines, with songs of joy, and with musical instruments…."


But Saul doesn’t celebrate. He gets very offended. He says "They have credited David with tens of thousands, but me with only thousands. What more can he get but the kingdom?"

Effects of Jealousy

A. it steals your joy. And it leaves you feeling miserable and empty. Proverbs 14:30 says that "A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones. Jealousy will eat you up on the inside."

B. You’ll do strange things. I think of the woman who worked at NASA in order to make sure she didnt have to stop for a rest room break enroute to confront the "other woman" she wore a diaper.

C. Distract you from your true calling. Some Bible commentators think that Saul may have spent up to 16 years hunting for david when he should have been focused on building a kingdom and fighting the philistines.

D. It may become a part of your character and something noticeable even to non-Christians.
Mark 15:10 "For he knew that the chief priests had delivered him for envy."

Remedy?

-Admit it in prayer
-Celebrate the blessings of others knowing that the same God can bless you too
-Be thankful for who you are and what you have
-Run your race.