Finding the Good in Envy

"Envy comes from people's ignorance of, or lack of belief in, their own gifts." Jean Vanier

Envy is something I'm sure we have all experienced in our lives. It is something that we must learn how to control and hopefully learn how to make it go away.

A lot of times, probably all of the time, our envy has to do with coveting what someone else has. "Do not covet" is the very last commandment from God. It is hard to now want what other people have, especially in our world today. But when you really think about it, envy is just that - wanting what someone else has.

So what should we do about this envy? Why not use it for good? Why not really dig deep and try and understand just why you are envying that person. Figure out what it is you want or like about them and then do yourself a favor and start taking step to doing it!

You can always take it a step further for good too. Let the person know what you envy about them. You don't have to say "I envy you because..." but you can let them know that you love something about them. It is okay to give someone a compliment and it may just take away some "not-so-good" feelings you have toward them.

Don't let envy get the better of you - you get the better of envy! Start making yourself a better person today!

Will Do

1. Remember to use feelings of envy as a catalyst for spiritual growth
2. Be more compassionate and forgiving
3. Be willing to make small changes to become who you desire to be
4. Look beyond surface appearances
5. Choose to take positive actions instead of dwelling on negative feelings
6. Put yourself in other's shoes
7. Think the best of others

To Do

1. Pray and ask God to show you what you can learn from your feelings of envy
2. Do one small thing to cultivate a good quality in your life that you envy about someone else
3. Write a letter to God thanking Him for your blessings
4. Answer: "How do I get caught up in the envy game?"
5. Have a close friend tell you your greatest qualities and then you return the favor
6. Do a kindness for someone you envy

Bible Verses to Remember

1. James 3:16
2. 1 Corinthians 13:4
3. Proverbs 27:4
4. Colossians 3:12
5. Proverbs 22:4
6. Matthew 20:26-27
7. 1 Peter 2:1
8. Proverbs 14:30

"Envy takes the joy, happiness, and contentment out of living."

            Billy Graham