“The Problem with Jealousy”
Yesterday, through a study of Reuben we learned when we begin to compromise certain things, it begins to erode our convictions. Compromising or “doing your thing,” has become a very popular acceptance in today’s society. When we compromise our standards of life or convictions, we do so by taking something right and reduce it to meet our lifestyle. Removing ourselves from right and truth can lead down on a path of no return.
More often than not, the opening story on any news station relates to some sort of violence and in too many cases, a person murdering another. We watch angry crowds as they march in protest destroying anything and everything that gets in their way. Civil conversations are outnumbered by those where people disagree and someone getting angry.
Most violent actions stem from jealousy. It’s like, “I want your job … your home … your bank account … your title … or someone else serving in a political position”. Jealousy can lead to anger which can lead to uncontrolled rage, that leads to someone being injured or killed. In the story of Joseph and Reuben, (Genesis 29 – 50) , we find jealousy turning into such hatred, that the brothers actually tried to kill Joseph.
Lest we say, “That could never happen to me,” let’s take a look at the commentary on verses 19 and 20 in Genesis chapter 37.
Could jealousy ever make you feel like killing someone? Before saying, “Of course not,” look what happened in this story. Ten men were willing to kill their younger brother over a robe and a few reported dreams. Their deep jealousy had grown into ugly rage, completely blinding them to what was right.
Jealousy can be difficult to recognize because our reasons for it seem to make sense. But left unchecked, jealousy grows quickly and leads to serious sins. The longer you cultivate jealous feelings, the harder it is to uproot them. The time to deal with jealousy is when you notice yourself keeping score of what others have.
Pastor Carnes
