Sunday Devotion: From Envy to Encouraged (November 6th, 2021)

    Have you ever wanted what someone else had?

    This, in and of itself is natural--wanting what someone else has; but if this wanting persists it can turn toxic. That is because wanting and desiring the object or attribute of another for extended periods of time can lead to envy and the Bible is very clear on the subject of envy—don't do it. This makes sense because envy very often manifests itself as a feeling of resentment or ill will toward another because of that person’s success. But since it's normal to want what another has, what do we do if this wanting turns into envy?

    *First, Come Clean. Come clean and tell the person you envy that you wish you had what they had or accomplished what they accomplished and you feel bad because you want those things for yourself.

    Getting this out by telling the person how you feel will most often help you release those feelings of envy. If you do not tell the person of your feelings of envy and just hold it all in, chances are those feelings of envy will linger and grow.

     Who knows, telling the person how you feel may also bring you closer together? The Bible does say "All things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28. So if you act in the godly way of being honest with the person you feel envy towards—no matter how the person responds, something good must come out of it according to Scripture. Even if it is feeling relief you got your feelings out.

    *Second, Ask for Help.  The last thing you may want to do is ask for help from the person you are envious of but it is by far the wisest thing you can do.

     What I mean by ask for help is ask for advice on how to get what they have/accomplish what they have accomplished/or just be more like them. If they don’t want to help you, that is a pretty good indicator you need to stay away from them. But most people will be happy to give you tips and tools and advice on how to have what they have or be more like them. And if you tell someone you want to be more like them, what a huge compliment that is. I mean, you are basically saying,”I admire you so much so that I am willing to learn and work to become more like you.” There is no bigger compliment.

     And asking for this sort of help may not only get you what you want, you may also make a new friend, find a mentor, or become closer to an an already-existing friend!

     So there you go! You don’t have to live with envy. Get it out, learn, grow and become everything you are meant to be. You can do it! And don’t forget to think about all you do have and how great you already are and how much God loves you. :)

     God bless and have a Happy Sabbath Day!