But if you are bitterly jealous and there is selfish ambition in your heart, don’t cover up the truth with boasting and lying. 15 For jealousy and selfishness are not God’s kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and demonic. 16 For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and evil of every kind.
james 3:14-16 nlt
Question. How often have you said to yourself, “They may have a big house, but who knows what’s going on inside of there” or “They have xyz, but I bet they’re probably struggling”? You can insert whatever item or situation inside that phrase, but the sentiment is the same. You perceived that someone else had an advantage or better blessing than you and created a judgement to make yourself feel better. Why? Because there is some level of jealousy or envy that you were trying to placate or soothe.
Jealousy, though often seen in a negative light, is eye opening in the spiritual maturation process. This is because emotions are a great indicator of the position of your heart. When we have jealousy or envy in our hearts, we come up with ways to alleviate it on our own instead of embracing the truth of God.
One way of avoidance is by judging others. The Bible is clear on judging; “Judge not, that you be not judged.” (Matthew 7:1). Yet, so often, that’s the first thing we turn to dull jealousy’s sting. So how do we heal the root of jealousy? God’s Truth. Let’s look at Colossians 3:13-15, it teaches us to forgive and put on love. First, we must ask for God’s forgiveness for the times when we judge others; for the Lord alone is our judge (James 4:12). Next, we forgive ourselves for trying to alleviate jealousy in our own strength. And lastly, we love others and cling to harmony instead of ill will or conflict.
When we look at God’s Word, we recognize that God is not holding out on us. God is a good father and He doesn’t withhold from His children. “So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” (1 Peter 5:6 - 7 NLT). God will bless you according to His will in due time, so there’s no place for jealousy or envy in your heart. You have the power to overcome jealousy by rooting yourself in God’s Word. Lean into God and not your own strength.
When was the last time that you recognized that you were jealous or even envious of someone else? How can you uproot those thoughts and replace them with God’s Truth today?
