Biblical teaching on jealousy, envy, contentment, and finding peace in God
The Bible clearly warns against jealousy and envy as destructive sins. Proverbs 14:30 says "A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot." James 3:16 states "where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice." However, Scripture also speaks of God's "righteous jealousy" - His protective love for His people.
Scripture's clear warnings about the destructive nature of jealousy and envy.
“A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot.”
— Proverbs 14:30 (ESV)
“But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice.”
— James 3:14-16 (ESV)
“Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger... I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
— Galatians 5:19-21 (ESV)
“Wrath is cruel, anger is overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy?”
— Proverbs 27:4 (ESV)
How God's jealousy differs from sinful human jealousy.
“For you shall worship no other god, for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God.”
— Exodus 34:14 (ESV)
“For the Lord your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God.”
— Deuteronomy 4:24 (ESV)
“For I feel a divine jealousy for you, since I betrothed you to one husband, to present you as a pure virgin to Christ.”
— 2 Corinthians 11:2 (ESV)
Biblical strategies for defeating jealousy and finding peace.
“Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.”
— Philippians 4:11-12 (ESV)
“Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you."”
— Hebrews 13:5 (ESV)
“Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.”
— Romans 12:15 (ESV)
“But godliness with contentment is great gain.”
— 1 Timothy 6:6 (ESV)
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