How can we guard against envy when observing "the wicked" prospering? Taking Our Cue from Proverbs 23:17–18 “Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always continue in the fear of the LORD. For surely there is a future, and your hope will not be cut off.” Why Envy Creeps In • We see immediate success: “For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.” (Psalm 73:3) • We forget the full story: “Their end is destruction.” (Philippians 3:19) • We measure blessing by material gain rather than eternal reward. Recognizing What Envy Really Is • A misplaced desire—wanting what God has not assigned to us (Exodus 20:17). • A distrust of God’s goodness—assuming He withholds what would be best (Genesis 3:5-6). • A form of short-sightedness—ignoring the eternal perspective (2 Corinthians 4:18). Practical Guards Against Envy 1. Fix your gaze on the LORD – “Always continue in the fear of the LORD.” (Proverbs 23:17) – Reverent awe reorients the heart away from earthly score-keeping. 2. Remember the future God promises – “Surely there is a future, and your hope will not be cut off.” (Proverbs 23:18) – Psalm 73:17-20 shows the wicked’s end contrasted with the believer’s inheritance. 3. Meditate on eternal rewards – “The meek will inherit the earth.” (Psalm 37:11) – “Great is your reward in heaven.” (Matthew 5:12) 4. Cultivate gratitude for present grace – List daily mercies (Lamentations 3:22-23). – “Give thanks in all circumstances.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) 5. Practice generosity and service – Turning outward breaks envy’s inward spiral (Acts 20:35). – “Do not neglect doing good and sharing, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” (Hebrews 13:16) 6. Stay anchored in fellowship – “Encourage one another daily.” (Hebrews 3:13) – Godly community redirects conversation from comparison to edification. The Bottom Line Envy fades when the heart is captivated by God’s character, assured of His future, and busy with His present purposes. |
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