Scripture mentions two kinds of jealousy. The first has to do with God’s character and is motivated by His passion for us and our worship.
“‘You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor’” (Exodus 20:17).
1. Take a Breath
Intense emotions usually cause us to become tense physically, which in turn affects our ability to think clearly. So the act of taking a few deep breaths can be enough to diffuse the feeling a bit.
2. Acknowledge What You’re Feeling
Though it may be hard to admit to dealing with jealousy, being honest with yourself is an important step to breaking its hold on you.
3. Lift Up a Prayer
Remember that God already knows your struggle and is ready to give you what you need - forgiveness, grace and wisdom for what to do next.
4. Question the Feeling
Once you are aware of being jealous and are feeling a little bit calmer, you can ask yourself if the emotion is necessary, or if it is benefitting you in any way. (Hint: The answer is usually no.)
5. Talk about It
Sharing our battles reassures us that we’re not alone, so don’t hesitate to find a trusted confidant who speaks truth and encouragement into your life.
6. Replace It
Letting go of a negative mindset leaves room for something better, so as you release jealousy, try to express some thanksgiving and contentment for ways that God has already blessed you.
7. Write It Out
The act of putting our feelings on paper (or computer) can help us sort out what thoughts and attitudes lead us in that direction, and will be a resource for you if jealousy flares up again.
8. Learn from the Feeling
The clearer you can get as to why you felt jealous or what triggered the feeling, the better you’ll be able to catch it the next time before it takes hold of you.
Cain
“The Lord looked with favor on Abel and his offering, but on Cain and his offering he did not look with favor. So Cain was very angry, and his face was downcast”
Joseph’s brothers
“When his brothers saw that their father loved him more than any of them, they hated him and could not speak a kind word to him” (Genesis 37:4).
King Saul
“Saul was afraid of David, because the Lord was with David but had departed from Saul” (1 Samuel 18:12).
The Prodigal Son’s Older Brother
“‘Now his older son was in the field, and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. And he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant…But he was angry and refused to go in’” (Luke 15:25-26, 28).
Heather Adams is an author, speaker, and singer living in Connecticut. Heather’s passion is to equip and encourage believers to seek more of God’s truth and to experience more of His joy each day. Her book, Bow Down: The Heart of a True Worshipper is a practical, 30-day devotional about worship based on the writings of King David. Heather's blog, Worship Walk Ministries, offers weekly Scripture passages and insights to ponder. A native New Englander, Heather is settling into her home in the South, trying out local foods and watching for the alligators that live nearby!
He is a cross pendant.
He is engraved with a unique Number.
He will mail it out from Jerusalem.
He will be sent to your Side.
Emmanuel
Bible Verses About Welcoming ImmigrantsEmbracing the StrangerAs we journey through life, we often encounter individuals who are not of our nationality......
Who We AreWhat We EelieveWhat We Do
2025 by lntellectual Reserve,Inc All rights reserved.
