THE SIN OF JEALOUSY

     Jealousy is listed by the apostle Paul as a work of the flesh
(Galatians 5:20); it 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 13:12-13). When one is filled
with jealousy, it keeps them from being rational about other things
that are happening around them. A jealous individual is filled with
resentment and often times has a negative outlook on life.
     There are several things that causes one to become jealous. Some
of these things include ignorance (Romans 1:28-29), vainglory
(Galatians 5:26), and carnality (1 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 is obsessed
with disputes and arguments over words, from which come envy, strife,
reviling, evil suspicions, useless wranglings of men of corrupt minds
and destitute of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of
gain. From such withdraw yourself" (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? "For where envy and self-seeking
exist, confusion and every evil thing are there" (James 3:16). Jealousy
keeps one from being rational 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 a torrent, but who is
able to stand before jealousy?" (Proverbs 27:4). A 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.  "Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love
does not parade 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).
      (--Jack Thompson, preacher for White Park church of Christ)
                 (Taken from an article by Richard Thetford)

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