Topical Encyclopedia Envy is a destructive emotion that is frequently addressed in the Bible as a characteristic of the wicked. It is a feeling of discontent or covetousness with regard to another's advantages, success, or possessions. The Bible warns against envy, highlighting its potential to lead individuals away from righteousness and into sin.Biblical References: 1. Proverbs 14:30 : "A tranquil heart is life to the body, but envy rots the bones." This verse illustrates the corrosive nature of envy, contrasting it with the peace and health that come from a contented heart. Envy is depicted as something that eats away at one's well-being, both spiritually and physically. 2. James 3:14-16 : "But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such wisdom does not come from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice." Here, envy is linked with disorder and evil practices, emphasizing its origin as earthly and demonic rather than divine. 3. Galatians 5:19-21 : "The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and sorcery; hatred, discord, jealousy, rage, rivalries, divisions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, carousing, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God." Envy is listed among the acts of the flesh, which are contrary to the Spirit and disqualify one from inheriting the kingdom of God. 4. Psalm 73:3 : "For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked." This psalm reflects the struggle of the righteous when they observe the apparent success of the wicked. It acknowledges the temptation to envy those who prosper through unrighteous means. 5. 1 Corinthians 3:3 : "For you are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not walking in the way of man?" The Apostle Paul admonishes the Corinthian church for their envy and strife, indicating that such behavior is a sign of spiritual immaturity and worldliness. The Nature of Envy: Envy is often rooted in a lack of trust in God's provision and a failure to appreciate one's own blessings. It can lead to a range of sinful behaviors, including resentment, bitterness, and even violence. The account of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4 is a prime example of how envy can lead to tragic consequences. Cain's envy of Abel's favor with God ultimately led him to commit the first murder. The Wicked and Envy: The wicked are frequently associated with envy in the Scriptures. Their lives are often marked by a relentless pursuit of personal gain at the expense of others. Envy drives them to covet what others have, leading to a cycle of sin and dissatisfaction. The Bible warns that such a path is ultimately self-destructive and separates individuals from the love and grace of God. Overcoming Envy: Believers are called to overcome envy by cultivating a spirit of gratitude and contentment. The Apostle Paul, in Philippians 4:11-13, speaks of learning to be content in all circumstances through the strength of Christ. By focusing on the blessings God has provided and trusting in His perfect plan, Christians can resist the temptation to envy and instead live in peace and joy. Torrey's Topical Textbook Titus 3:3For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Treatise x. On Jealousy and Envy. All the Day Long Colossians iii. 16, 17 How Antipater Committed the Care of Galilee to Herod, and that of ... Man's Chief End That Evil Comes of Sloth, and virtue from Diligence, and that ... Letter xxi (Circa AD 1128) to the Abbot of S. John at Chartres The Death of the Righteous Christian Contentment. Petilianus Said: "But what have You to do with the Kings of This.. ... 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 |
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