Jealousy is a monster that destroys families, friendships, churches, organisations and even nations. Out of jealousy grows envy, complaints and murmurings. Jealousy and envy can make us mean and evil, and as ungodly as possible.
According to Wikipedia, Jealousy is an emotion and typically refers to the negative thoughts and feelings of insecurity, fear, and anxiety over an anticipated loss of something that the person values, particularly in reference to a human connection. Jealousy often consists of a combination of presenting emotions such as anger, resentment, inadequacy, helplessness and disgust. It is a product of our Adamic nature, humans inherited this emotion from the original sin committed by Adam. Wikipedia tells that even some babies possess this trait - It has been observed in infants five months and older.
Jealousy makes you discontent because of something someone has. It produces resentment because of a fear of rivalry . Envy is the feeling of discontentment, resentment and jealousy because of what another owns, or has. As Christians, it is wrong for us to accept jealousy and envy as being a part of us. Just as it is wrong for us to accept telling lies, fornication and adultery, outbursts of wrath , etc. The Holy Spirit of God lives in us as Christians to overcome our Adamic nature , and walk in our new nature - the Godly nature. Personally, the Spirit of God nudges me when I succumb to carnality. I believe every Christian has these nudges as and when necessary. Jealousy and envy is a spirit of destruction that contradicts the nature of God, and ought not control a child of God.
Jealousy and envy is what led Lucifer to rebel against God. Lucifer was envious of God's status and power, and desired to be as God. Isaiah 14:12-15 How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north:
I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High.
Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.
Jealousy caused Cain to kill Abel. The brothers of Joseph were envious of the preferential treatment he was given by their father. They were so moved by jealousy that they lived dreading Joseph becoming their ruler. This caused them to even plot to murder Joseph. Out of envy and jealousy grow evil thoughts and actions. When jealousy takes over, you are unable to give honour or accept another's place of honour. You are likely to beat yourself up when you appear to lose recognition, and ask questions like - " Why him, and not me?" You tend to think every important or special thing should be associated with you and your name. Jealousy is spurred on by pride and a feeling of self importance.
We give in to jealousy and envy when we refuse to be content with what God has given to us, or made of us. When we learn to be content, we will eradicate evil feelings of jealousy and envy. I remember as I was growing up, my mum kept saying to us - "rejoice with others, and never compete. God has a special plan for everyone, and there is a different time for blessings in everybody's life. Today may be the turn of your sister, brother, or friend. But tomorrow will be your turn. So rejoice with others when they succeed." This piece of advice has guided me. When you rejoice with others for their achievements and successes, you will eschew jealous feelings and live without envy.
Jealousy and envy is destructive, so as Christians, let us get rid of this monster.
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