Proverbs 14:30
A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.
We talked about envy in our small group yesterday. The word “envy” comes from a root that means “to look askance.” Envy is an emotion that "occurs when a person lacks another’s superior quality, achievement, or possession and desires it." They also feel that it is not possible (or not easy) for them to have what they want. It’s what happens when we look around and compare our circumstances to others.
As caregivers, we can envy those who appear to have more freedom or pleasures than we do. We are envious of others who are popular and embraced by society when those we love are rejected or overlooked. We envy how simple and easy life seems to be for some.
It may not be possible to never be jealous or envious, but I think we can all agree that it is an uncomfortable, unhealthy and unproductive way to live. So how to overcome it? The answer lies in what we focus on. If we turn to others who have a perspective as limited and darkened as our own to discover our worth, we will never find satisfaction and contentment. However, if our focus is on Jesus, if He becomes our standard, we can find peace. He knew suffering and rejection. He did not own much. He knew the cost of loving sacrificially, yet He was victorious over life and death.
More instruction for overcoming envy can be found in Phillipians 4. Rejoice. Be thankful. Pray. Focus on what is good and right. Let the strength of Christ fill you to do this good work. Then people will want what you have – abiding peace.