All of us have our vulnerabilities. We all have those weaknesses that we will constantly have to battle against: pride, insecurity, anger, and the list goes on. We shouldn’t downplay any of them because they all have the potential to limit us in life, but this morning my heart is on jealousy:
“Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy?
– Proverbs 27:4
Jealousy left unattended is dangerous. If jealousy is not an issue for you, be grateful but be compassionate towards those that do struggle with it. Who decides what our vulnerabilities will be? We all come into this world with our own unique set of issues.
Jealousy tears families apart, jealousy kills, jealousy gossips, jealousy assassinates characters. Jealousy steals your peace. Jealousy leaves you feeling as if you are never enough- and never will be.
Jealousy causes you to hate- even hate those who love you. Jealousy is no respector of persons. Jealousy is real between mother and daughter, sister to sister. Jealousy runs rampant among women- even the beautiful.
Jealousy is not moved by appearances- it simply seeks a vulnerable heart.
Jealousy destroys. Jealousy destroys relationships. If you let it, jealousy will destroy you.
How can we overcome jealousy?
First of all, we must be honest. Being honest about our struggles is the first step to overcome them. There is no way you can overcome anything by ignoring it.
Don’t underestimate the power of jealousy. Be honest and fight against it. Anything not dealt with only grows.
As Christians, we have the power of One who is more powerful than anything we may face. We can rely on God and His Word to overcome jealousy:
“If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.”
– Galatians 5:25-26
No matter how you feel, you must:
“Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.”
– Romans 12:21
Read Dealing with the issues of the heart: Do you have an unhealthy heart?
