jealousy.
Let’s talk about it. It’s a word that I have grown to HATE. I know hate is a strong word. In fact, I have taught my girls that we don’t use the word hate when talking about a person but can use that word when referring to a thing.
“But mom, are mosquitos and spiders a thing?”
“ABSOLUTELY!” ;)
However, we should be more concerned over the word jealousy. What a STRONG word.
Jealousy is defined as feeling resentment, bitterness, or hostility toward someone because they have something that you don't.
Arthur Alfred Lynch said, “Jealousy, in spite of the mad frenzy of its most splendid displays, is a vice of weakness; it arises from a mind whose aspirations and desires are inferior to its accomplishments; it is the child of baulked vanity and failure of courage.''
Most songs that are written about jealousy are in reference to a romantic relationship but it’s rare to find a song about jealousy in a friendship, co-worker, neighbor, or even family.
James 3:16 says, “For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and evil of every kind.”
Evil. Whew. Now things are getting real over here. What a perfect word, jealousy, for the enemy to use to take out relationships of all kinds.
The ROOT of jealousy is insecurity or fear. Or it could even be both.
If you find yourself having feelings of jealousy, because after all we are human, be honest with yourself and that person and with God. It might warrant a conversation with that person or it might be that you need God to remind you that you are an original, created on purpose with so much value and worth. Don’t let things fester and grow.
The enemy loves to take something that might seem small and water it, and then watch it grow until it becomes a distraction and causes you not to be the best version of yourself. Our eyes need to focus on the purpose that God has for our lives, and our purpose does not look like anyone else’s. You are unique! The only ONE that has the good kind of jealousy is God. He is jealous of your time, your heart, and your affection, but in the most pure way possible!