Avoiding Envy and Boasting
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Introduction

Envy and boasting are two attitudes that Scripture consistently warns against, as they are contrary to the character and teachings of Christ. Envy is a feeling of discontent or covetousness with regard to another's advantages, success, or possessions, while boasting is the act of speaking with excessive pride and self-satisfaction about one's achievements, possessions, or abilities. Both are rooted in pride and can lead to division and strife within the body of Christ.

Biblical Warnings Against Envy

The Bible provides numerous admonitions against envy, highlighting its destructive nature. In the Old Testament, Proverbs 14:30 states, "A tranquil heart is life to the body, but envy rots the bones." This verse underscores the internal decay that envy can cause, affecting both spiritual and physical well-being.

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul addresses envy in his letters to the early churches. In Galatians 5:19-21 , envy is listed among the "acts of the flesh," which are contrary to living by the Spirit: "The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God."

Biblical Warnings Against Boasting

Boasting is similarly condemned in Scripture. The prophet Jeremiah records God's words in Jeremiah 9:23-24 : "This is what the LORD says: 'Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, nor the strong man in his strength, nor the wealthy man in his riches. But let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD, who exercises loving devotion, justice, and righteousness on the earth—for I delight in these things,' declares the LORD."

In the New Testament, Paul again addresses the issue of boasting. In 1 Corinthians 13:4 , he writes, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud." Here, Paul contrasts boasting with the selfless nature of love, which is the hallmark of Christian character.

The Example of Christ

Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate example of humility and selflessness, providing a model for believers to follow. Philippians 2:3-8 exhorts believers to emulate Christ's humility: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross."

Practical Steps to Avoid Envy and Boasting

1. Cultivate Contentment: Hebrews 13:5 advises, "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'" Contentment in God's provision helps guard against envy.

2. Practice Gratitude: Regularly giving thanks to God for His blessings can shift focus from what one lacks to what one has, reducing the temptation to envy others.

3. Celebrate Others' Successes: Romans 12:15 encourages believers to "Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep." Sharing in the joy of others can diminish feelings of envy.

4. Seek Humility: James 4:10 instructs, "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you." Recognizing one's dependence on God fosters humility and reduces the inclination to boast.

5. Focus on God's Glory: 1 Corinthians 10:31 reminds believers, "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God." Redirecting focus from self to God's glory can help mitigate both envy and boasting.

By adhering to these biblical principles, believers can cultivate a heart that reflects the humility and love of Christ, avoiding the pitfalls of envy and boasting.
Avoiding Envy
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