Envy & Jealousy

“Envy or jealousy is mediocrity’s tribute to excellence. Though interchangeable, ENVY begins with empty hands mourning its lack, and rejoicing at another’s misfortunes; JEALOUSY starts with full hands, but afraid of losing to another what it already possesses. Envy or jealousy is demonic (James 3:13-16). When conditions are ripe, it will kill the object of its grudge (e.g., Cain/Abel; Saul/David; religious leaders/Christ), but its malice always boomerangs (e.g., Haman dies on his gallows for Mordecai; Daniel’s rivals end up in the lion’s den). The misery of jealousy outlives the joy of those we envy.”–Samuel Koranteng-Pipim

Meditation on Proverbs 27:4; 14:30; Ecclesiastes 4:4; Galatians 5:19-21.