[Jesus] went on: “What comes out of a person is what defiles them. For it is from within, out of a person’s heart, that evil thoughts come—sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. All these evils come from inside and defile a person. (Mark 7:20-23)

What do you want that someone else has?

Maybe it's ...

• a better marriage
• more money
• a promotion
• a bigger house
• a new car
• a better relationship with your children
• a position at church
• better health
• a thriving business
• a better professional network
• opportunities to speak, perform, or sing
• more friends
• greater spiritual understanding
• more likes on your social media pages
• the ability to raise money
• and anything else I haven't named

Whatever it is, I want to remind you that jealousy (fear of being displaced) and envy (distress felt based on what another has that you lack) are part of being human.

These destructive forces come from within, and will control you if you don't distinguish them. Saying the same thing in another way, if you aren't aware that envy and jealousy - along with anger, suspicion, dread, undercutting manipulation, and the like are operating within you, you will be taken along for the ride they dictate.

As I mentioned yesterday, jealousy and envy are sneaky. We often engage in them and justify unknowingly.

Pray to your Heavenly Father to shine His light in your heart so you can see what's really happening. Only then will you have the opportunity to address the condition of your heart with God's power.

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Prayer

I recognize the envy and jealousy that sometimes cloud my vision. Illuminate my heart, revealing these hidden emotions. Provide me the wisdom to distinguish and confront them. Strengthen me to find contentment in your blessings. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

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Reflection

1. What specific situations or possessions tend to trigger feelings of jealousy or envy in you?

2. How can acknowledging and distinguishing between jealousy and envy help in approaching these feelings in a healthier way?

3. In moments of jealousy and envy, what practical steps can you take to realign your focus with God's perspective?

Identifying Envy & Jealousy

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