How do I overcome jealousy?

Today’s post might be a little strange but I am convinced the Lord will have me write about it. Recently I’ve struggled with jealousy and did not even know that it was jealousy till the Lord showed me my heart. (Don’t judge me). Jealousy/envy can refer to the thoughts or feelings of insecurity, fear, and concern over a relative lack of possessions. Envy can include emotions such as anger, resentment, inadequacy, helplessness or disgust. No wonder the Bible says that “For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there” James 3:16.

You see, many of us struggle with this thing and yes many times it is unplanned. People do not go about deciding to be envious about other people. You just catch yourself feeling bad about someone else’s gift or journey. The deal though is that God is not glorified when we cannot find happiness and joy for other people’s progress. No I am not here to beat you with a Bible. We are human and sometimes we have to deal with our flesh but praise God we can walk in the spirit and shut the flesh. However, if you find yourself in this situation, here are some steps that can help your heart.

STOP COMPARING YOURSELF: 2 Corinthians 10:12 gives us a basis not to compare ourselves. You are different, your journey is different and you are special. It is not wise to compare yourself to anybody because people deal with stuff that they do not post online and you might not necessarily be able to see.

ASK GOD TO HELP YOU: In my experience, I did not even admit it to be jealousy, I tried to coat it with some excuse but fam, you have to tell yourself the truth and ask the ONLY One who can help you. If you need to keep your distance, do it for your heart and for your journey with the Lord. We can only see God work in our lives when we are pure in heart. To be pure in heart is totally possible and God will help when we are honest with Him! “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” Matthew 5:8

REMIND YOURSELF OF HIS PROMISES: If God is able to do good things for other people, He is able to do them for you as well. Therefore you remind yourself of His word, His promises and His plan for your life. One of my personal favorites is the fact that I am the apple of His eyes. Exodus 14:14 tells me that the Lord (Who is also my father) will fight for me, and I shall hold my peace.” I don’t need to do anything, I just trust Him. He has won the battle against life, comparison and despair.

I am loved by my Father God and so are you. Child of God, YOU NEED TO KNOW THIS.