Envy.
We all deal with it.
It creeps up when we see someone’s new car, new home or their big vacation.
It can overpower church leaders when they see other pastors with more visible ministries.
It can happen amongst children when one gets new shoes or a new device.
Phone and tech companies count on it.
Commercials are designed around it.
It is everywhere.
And it steals our joy.
I just finished reading The Richest Man Who Ever Lived by Steven Scott.
It is a book all about the life and wisdom of King Solomon. And in the wisdom God gave Solomon, we find the cure for envy.
When your heart is full of gratitude, there’s no room for envy to grow.
Envy takes your eyes off of what you have and puts your focus on what you don’t have.
Martin Luther once said, “You can’t stop a bird from landing on your head, but you can stop it from building a nest there!”
Of course, thoughts will come to mind, but it doesn’t mean we have to succumb to them. The temptation to become envious will always be present, but gratitude will eventually become your habit if you’re willing to focus on it!
Anger is cruel, and wrath is like a flood, but jealousy is even more dangerous.
Proverbs 27:4
Your life will be better, more full and happier if you nip envy in the bud!
Here are some ideas for becoming grateful:
