Free from jealousy

The Bible says, ‘For whatever overcomes a person, to that he is enslaved.’ (2 Peter 2:19 ESV) And that’s especially true of jealousy. Chuck Swindoll writes: ‘Jealousy and envy are often used interchangeably, but there’s a difference. Envy begins with empty hands; it mourns what it doesn’t have… Jealousy begins with full hands; it’s threatened by the pain of losing what you have to someone else despite your efforts to hold on to it… This was Cain’s sin. He was jealous of Abel. He resented God’s acceptance of his brother, and not until Abel’s blood poured over Cain’s cruel hands did jealousy subside. Solomon might well have written the epitaph for Abel’s tombstone: “Jealousy is cruel as the grave. Its flashes are flashes of fire.” (Song of Solomon 8:6 ESV) Anyone who has experienced deliverance from this hellish giant knows too well how jealousy can decimate a friendship, dissolve a romance, destroy a marriage, shoot tension through the ranks of professionals, nullify unity on a team, ruin a church, separate preachers, foster competition among the choir, bring bitterness and finger-pointing among talented instrumentalists and capable singers. Jealousy questions motives and deplores another’s success.’

The Bible says, ‘But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth.’ (James 3:14 NKJV) Instead, determine that by the grace of God, you’re going to break free from its control. Swindoll adds: ‘I lived many years obeying its commands. It was gross agony. Finally, I realised I didn’t have to live in darkness. I slew the giant and crawled out… and the releasing sunlight of freedom captured my heart. The air was so fresh and clean. Oh, the difference it has made! It’s utter delight. Ask my wife.’