"On the next Sabbath almost the whole city came together to hear the word of God. But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy; and contradicting and blaspheming, they opposed the things spoken by Paul."
Acts 13:44-45
Envy is an emotion that surfaces so easily. Paul encountered envy not only from those who opposed the Gospel, but sadly, even among believers. He spoke of those who "preach Christ from envy," but his attitudes was to rejoice because Christ was preached (Philippians 1:15-18). He taught that love does not envy (I Corinthians 13:4), and warned us to walk properly – not in envy (Romans 13:13). Envy leads to confusion and every evil work (James 3:16). When someone else is more successful and gets more praise and attention than I, envy is there to raise its ugly head, and I need to stomp it out before it causes damage to me, to others, and the work of Christ.
Today's Thought: Envy is destructive but can be smothered with rejoicing and thanksgiving.
Have a joyful day. Love you.
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