Overcoming Envy: The Surprising Threat to Christian Love

The Hidden Dangers of Envy

When we think of love, we often associate it with warm, fuzzy feelings and acts of kindness. But what about the things love is not? In 1 Corinthians 13:4, Paul reminds us that “love does not envy.” This may seem like a simple statement, but it holds profound implications for our daily lives.

A Personal Struggle

I’ll never forget the time I heard about a new church in town. A friend shared the exciting news, telling me that it was the largest and most vibrant church in the area. You’d think I would have been thrilled, celebrating God’s work and the growth of His kingdom. But instead, I felt a pang of jealousy. I wanted my own church to be the biggest and the best.

The Ugly Truth

It’s hard to admit, but my reaction was rooted in a deep-seated insecurity. I had lost sight of the fact that the church belongs to God, not to me. The work we do is His work, not ours. And our lives are His, not our own. In that moment, I realized that my job wasn’t to question God’s plans, but to trust Him.

Breaking Free from Envy

So, what’s the antidote to jealousy? It’s trust. Trusting that God is sovereign and that His ways are higher than ours. Trusting that He is working everything out for good, even when we can’t see it. When we choose to trust, we can finally let go of our envy and celebrate the successes of others.

A Lesson Learned

Looking back, I’m grateful for that difficult moment of conviction. It forced me to confront my own insecurities and to re-align my heart with God’s. I learned that true love isn’t about competing with others, but about trusting in God’s goodness and sovereignty. And that’s a lesson I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.

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