An Ugly Shade of Green
Whether it be a simple moment of anger, or a relentless tick
of irritation, we all have experienced jealousy at some point. It wells up
within us, and has the potential to consume our thoughts, our attitude, and even
our actions. As someone who has fallen into the trap of jealousy, I have
discovered the pain, the anger, and the unnecessary baggage it can cause. It’s
interesting, isn’t it, how we feel we must hold tight to the very thing that
can destroy us? Letting go of this jealousy can be tough. However, I would
argue that letting go is not only freeing, but can change an entire outlook of other
people.
The Truth: Jealousy
distorts reality.
Wrath is cruel, anger is overwhelming, but who
can stand before jealousy? Proverbs 27:4
When jealousy becomes a prominent factor in life, it’s easy
to put others on a pedestal. The flaws of that person seem to wither away, and
suddenly they have reached perfection. Or maybe you’re the opposite; you think,
“Wow, my life is terrible because I’m not like them/I don’t have what they
have.” I mean honestly, how ridiculous does this all sound? But yet we say
things like this anyway. When we allow jealousy to be a part of our life, it
can consume us, it can confuse us, and it can abuse us!
The Truth: Jealousy
fuels anger.
For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there
you find disorder and every evil practice. James 3:16
When jealousy has a hold on your life, a single message; a
single word can put you over the edge. The happier they are, the angrier you
get. At this stage, it’s safe to say jealousy has gotten out of hand in your
life. As easy as it is to become bitter towards a person because you don’t have
“what they have,” we must be intentional about remembering our blessings and knowing they aren’t perfect either.
The Truth: Letting go
of jealousy changes everything.
A heart of peace gives
life to the body, but envy rots the bones. Proverbs 14:30
Whether it be your attitude, your outlook, or your
self-confidence, letting go opens a door to a whole new view. Instead of being
dragged down by comparing yourself to others, you are now free to enjoy the
blessings in your life. As crazy as this may sound, you may even be able to
rejoice in others’ blessings as well. From my personal experiences, I have
found great joy, peace, and gratefulness from letting go of jealousy. Sure, it’s
hard to let go, but it’s completely
worth it.
Things to pray for overcoming jealousy:
·
God, I surrender. James 4:10
·
God, show me truth. John 8:22
·
God, give me faith in you to overcome this. 1 John
5:4
Until next time,
-Tamara
