Topical Encyclopedia Envy, a feeling of discontent or covetousness with regard to another's advantages, success, or possessions, is addressed multiple times in the Bible. The Scriptures caution believers against envying the prosperity of the wicked, emphasizing that such feelings are misplaced and ultimately harmful to one's spiritual well-being.Biblical Warnings Against Envy The Bible explicitly warns against the dangers of envy, particularly in relation to the apparent success of the wicked. In Psalm 37:1-2 , David advises, "Do not fret over those who do evil; do not envy those who do wrong. For they will wither quickly like grass and wilt like tender plants." This passage underscores the transient nature of the prosperity of the wicked, reminding believers that their success is fleeting and not worthy of envy. Similarly, Proverbs 24:19-20 states, "Do not fret over evildoers, and do not be envious of the wicked. For the evil man has no future; the lamp of the wicked will be extinguished." Here, the ultimate fate of the wicked is highlighted, reinforcing the futility of envying their temporary gains. The Righteous Perspective The Bible encourages believers to maintain a righteous perspective, focusing on their relationship with God rather than the success of others. In Psalm 73, Asaph reflects on his own struggle with envy, admitting in verses 2-3 , "But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled; my steps had nearly slipped. For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked." However, upon entering the sanctuary of God, he gains understanding of their end, as stated in verse 17 , "Then I entered the sanctuary of God; then I discerned their end." This shift in perspective is crucial for believers, as it redirects their focus from earthly success to eternal truths. The prosperity of the wicked is temporary, while the rewards for the righteous are everlasting. Trust in the Lord The Scriptures consistently encourage trust in the Lord as the antidote to envy. Psalm 37:3-4 advises, "Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness. Delight yourself in the LORD, and He will give you the desires of your heart." By trusting in God and committing to His ways, believers can find contentment and peace, free from the corrosive effects of envy. Furthermore, Proverbs 3:31-32 warns, "Do not envy a violent man or choose any of his ways; for the LORD detests the perverse, but He is a friend to the upright." This passage reinforces the importance of aligning oneself with God's values rather than being swayed by the apparent success of those who do not follow His ways. Eternal Perspective The New Testament also addresses the issue of envy, urging believers to adopt an eternal perspective. In 1 Peter 2:1-2 , Peter writes, "Rid yourselves, therefore, of all malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander. Like newborn infants, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation." This call to spiritual growth emphasizes the importance of focusing on one's own spiritual journey rather than being distracted by the success of others. Ultimately, the Bible teaches that the prosperity of the wicked is not to be envied, as it is temporary and ultimately leads to destruction. Believers are encouraged to trust in the Lord, cultivate faithfulness, and maintain an eternal perspective, finding contentment and peace in their relationship with God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 37:1,35Fret not yourself because of evildoers, neither be you envious against the workers of iniquity. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 73:3,17-20 Library Psalm CV. On Proverbs. From the Commentary of St. Hippolytus on Proverbs. Of Evil Angels Petilianus Said: "But what have You to do with the Kings of This.. ... Though in Order to Establish this Suitable Difference Between the ... The Prayer of Jabez Of Passages from the Holy Scriptures, and from the Apocrypha ... What Use Heavenly Contemplation Makes of Consideration, the ... Carey's Immediate Influence in Great Britain and America Homilies on the Gospel of John. Resources What are capital sins? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about jealousy? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of the Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard? | GotQuestions.org Envy: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Envy: A Proof of Carnal-Mindedness Envy: Excited by Good Deeds of Others Envy: General Scriptures Concerning Envy: Inconsistent With the Gospel Envy: Jews, of Paul and Barnabas Envy: Joseph's Brethren, of Joseph Envy: Joshua, of Eldad and Medad Envy: Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, of Moses Envy: Leads to Every Evil Work Envy: Miriam and Aaron, of Moses Envy: Produced by Foolish Disputation Envy: Prosperity of the Wicked should not Excite Envy: The Princes of Babylon, of Daniel Related Terms Unrighteousness (57 Occurrences) Long-suffering (23 Occurrences) |
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