How can we guard against envy as described in Psalm 73:3? Setting the Scene Psalm 73:3 says, “For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.” Asaph’s confession shows the ease with which envy slips in when we compare our circumstances to others’. Guarding the heart is therefore essential. Why Envy Is Serious • It questions God’s justice and goodness (Psalm 73:13-14). • It chokes gratitude (1 Thessalonians 5:18). • It spawns every kind of disorder (James 3:16). • It blocks fellowship with God (1 Peter 2:1). Watchpoints That Trigger Envy • Constantly viewing the “prosperity of the wicked” through news, social media, or conversation. • Dwelling on personal disappointments without reference to God’s purposes. • Measuring success by material or temporal standards rather than eternal ones (Matthew 6:19-21). Cultivating a God-Focused Perspective • Remember the end of the wicked and the reward of the righteous (Psalm 73:17-20). • Meditate on God’s nearness: “But as for me, the nearness of God is my good” (Psalm 73:28). • Acknowledge God’s constant guidance: “You guide me with Your counsel, and later receive me in glory” (Psalm 73:24). Practical Steps to Starve Envy 1. Redirect the Eyes – Memorize and recite Scriptures like Proverbs 23:17-18; Hebrews 13:5. – Limit inputs that magnify other people’s prosperity. 2. Nurture Contentment – “Godliness with contentment is great gain” (1 Timothy 6:6). – Keep a running list of daily mercies (Lamentations 3:22-23). 3. Celebrate Others Actively – “Rejoice with those who rejoice” (Romans 12:15). – Thank God aloud for their blessings, turning comparison into intercession. 4. Cultivate Eternal Vision – Set mind “on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2). – Frequently ponder the imperishable inheritance reserved in heaven (1 Peter 1:4). 5. Engage in Secret Giving – Practice generosity that only the Father sees (Matthew 6:3-4). – Generous habits disentangle the heart from covetous desires. Scripture Arsenal for Quick Recall • Exodus 20:17 – “You shall not covet … anything that belongs to your neighbor.” • Proverbs 14:30 – “A tranquil heart is life to the body, but envy is rottenness to the bones.” • Galatians 5:26 – “Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying one another.” • Philippians 4:11-12 – Paul’s schooling in contentment. • Psalm 37:1-4 – “Do not fret over those who do evil … Trust in the LORD and do good.” Encouragement to Persevere Envy loses strength when the soul sees God as its portion. Keep looking to “the strength of my heart and my portion forever” (Psalm 73:26). The Spirit stands ready to replace envy with joy, contentment, and unwavering trust in the One who holds the final word on prosperity and reward. |
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