THE SIN OF JEALOUSY
Jealousy is listed by the apostle
Paul as a work of the flesh in Galatians
5:20
and will keep one from entering, into heaven (Galatians 5:21). Webster
defines jealousy as: “resentfully envious.” It is a trait that has its roots in darkness (Romans 13:12-14). When one is filled
with jealousy, it keeps them from being rationale about other things that are
happening around them. A jealous
individual is filled with resentment and oftentimes has a negative outlook on
life.
What Causes Jealousy?
There are several things that cause
one to become jealous. Some of these things include ignorance (Romans 1:28-29), vainglory (Galatians 5:26),
and carnality (I Corinthians 3:3). But I feel that the number one thing that
causes most people to be jealous is selfishness. Paul wrote, “He is proud, knowing nothing but doting about questions and strifes
of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, perverse
disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that
gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself” (1 Timothy 6:4-5). The self-
seeking individual who cares only about himself is usually the one that also
becomes engulfed in jealousy.
What are the Results of Jealousy?
James writes: “For where envying and strife is, there is
confusion and every evil work” (James
3:
16). As I said earlier,
jealousy keeps one from being rationale and as a result confusion exists. When one becomes confused they are then more
likely to succumb to evil deeds. Solomon
wrote: “Wrath is cruel, and anger is
outrageous; but who Is able to stand before envy?” (Proverbs 27:4). Certain
destruction will await all those who are filled with the sin of jealousy. Therefore, cast this evil away (2 Peter 2:1) and learn to love your fellow
man. Paul wrote: “Charity suffereth
long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not
puffed up,” (1 Corinthians 13:4).
Recognize jealousy for what it really is, cast it aside, and live by the fruit
of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).