Jealousy and Rivalry

“If you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there.”- James 3:14-16 NKJV

The world is filled with disorder and evil. Everywhere we look, we see the results of sin. What happens when people turn their backs on God and disobey His Word. We see wars and violence. Divisions and conflicts. People who steal and deceive. We see this in politics and government. In business and shopping. In our communities and even our churches.

The Bible tells us that these conditions are encouraged when we have bitterness, envy, and ambition in our hearts. But it is important to recognize that these problems have a spiritual root, for this kind of wisdom is “earthly, sensual, demonic.”

Many Christians fall prey to this devil-inspired deception. How easily we can get caught up in the pressures of this world! We can say things that foster rivalries and jealousy. We can be judgmental, and be filled with condemnation.

But the wisdom that comes from God is different. It is “first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.” This is the kind of wisdom that all of us should pursue. And if we want to be peacemakers, we “will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of goodness.”

Today, ask God to give you His wisdom. Remember that this wisdom is always pure, peaceful, gentle, and easy to please. If you are filled with God’s wisdom, you will be ready to help those who are troubled and to do good for others. And you will sow seeds of love, kindness, and mercy into the lives of others.

He promises that, if you “work for peace in a peaceful way,” you will reap a harvest of goodness.

Prayer: Father, reveal if I have any selfishness and jealousy in my heart. Free me from the competitive spirit in the world. I humble myself before You and seek Your wisdom. In Jesus’ name. Amen.