Envy
Scripture:
Proverbs 14:30
A heart at peace gives life to the body,
but envy rots the bones.
Philippians 2:3-4
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.
Reflection:
Today I choose to fast from the sin of envy.
Have you ever struggled to celebrate the good fortunes of others? I know I have. Often it comes down to a simple thought resembling “Why them? Why not me?”. These are the thoughts that most often accompany envy. The hallmarks of envy are then a lack of kindness, mercy and love. Instead, judgement brews in their place.
Envy makes it easy for us to believe that we are left out, deprived or have been cheated. It’s a sin we’re all tempted to, but it’s not one that we have to give into. As we unpack envy this week, be prepared to uncover some of the wounds that lead to envy, but also the hope and healing that can be found when we choose to keep walking in the way of Christ.
Questions for Personal Reflection:
What types of people or situations are most likely to make me feel envious?
How do I typically feel when I believe I deserve more than I have?
Prayer:
Pray that God would open your heart and mind to better understand what envy looks like in your life and how to move forward from it. Share with God those situations that make you feel envious and pray for the wellbeing of those of whom you are envious.
These devotions have been adapted from “Lenten Healing: 40 Days to Set You Free from Sin” by Ken Kniepmann.
