How to Deal with Jealousy

A promotion is awarded to another employee after we’ve worked tirelessly on a project. A friend enjoys sharing time with other people instead of deepening a long-term relationship. Good things keep happening to everyone around us. How do we handle the emotions when jealousy tries to enter our thoughts? How does God want us to deal with jealousy?

God created humans individually and uniquely. We have different eye and hair colors, heights, weights, and personalities. Along with those glorious attributes that God has given, we have human frailties, too. One of those emotions that surfaces from time to time is jealousy. However, God has provided His instructions through His Word. Those laws allow us to learn from our mistakes, repent, and seek forgiveness and renewal.

At a young age, children watch and listen to their surroundings. They absorb how adults and other children deal with situations. Moments involving a mishandled toy, not being chosen for a game, or perhaps a child is not included in a conversation, are all times when jealousy can enter the picture.

Have you noticed how children interact with each other and how they share feelings? From experiencing joyous moments to handling disagreements, adults can learn from children.

As those jealous feelings enter into our thoughts, there is an opportunity to release those emotions and focus on God. Humans will fail, but we are loved by God and He gives us the path to repentance.

The way adults handle jealousy can be a learning tool for everyone. What does God say about jealousy? Numerous verses in the Bible share the consequences of jealousy. The book of Job tells how Eliphaz expressed that being jealous when things don’t go your way can make life more difficult.

Genesis is where we first learn about jealousy between two brothers. Cain was jealous and murdered his brother. Deep, dark, sinful nature can be brought out when we rely on ourselves and not on God.

In Paul’s letter to the church in Corinth, he reminds the people about the importance of love. Paul states that love is not envious.

So, how do we deal with jealousy in the everyday moments of life? Pray. Go to God first. When those sinful feelings of jealousy arise, go to the Father and seek His guidance. Acknowledge the feelings, repent, and seek God’s forgiveness, and ask God to provide wisdom and discernment. God hears the prayers of His people.

Remember the truth and power of God’s Word. Read Scripture daily. Share time with God through worship, song, prayer, and conversation.

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others” (Philippians 2:3-4 NIV).

In His Name,

Melissa Henderson