Introductory Thoughts
The Bible likens jealousy to a weapon. Lives are spared when this weapon rests in the bosom of someone with righteous motives. Yet, when the foolish wield this weapon, jealousy leads to destructive outcomes. The very thing that the Lord possesses to protect His people, His land, and His name, can push the ungodly men into an uncontrollable rage. God’s jealousy protects the righteous and consumes the guilty. Yet, the jealousy of an unrighteous man has consumed the lives of many innocent people. The Bible states that “jealousy is cruel as the grave: the coals thereof are coals of fire, which hath a most vehement flame” (Song of Solomon 8:6). Misplaced jealousy is a most dangerous weapon.
Devotional Thoughts
-
(For children): The Bible reveals many instances of man's jealousy. In most cases, heartache and destruction are brought into the lives of innocent people (Genesis 4:3-5, 8; Genesis 37:4, 11, 18; 1 Samuel 18:8-9; Esther 5:11-14; Esther 7:10; Esther 9:13-14; Daniel 6:1-4, 24).
-
(For everyone): Jealousy in itself is not sinful, yet it can be sinful when misplaced and misguided. What are some ways in which jealousy generally turns evil?
-
Has jealousy proven harmful to any in your family? What happened to cause this harm? Do you know if the jealousy began with a righteous motive?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to protect you from misplaced jealousy.
- Ask God to show you the dangers of jealousy if misguided.
Song
TAKE TIME TO BE HOLY
