According to Webster’s Dictionary, character is defined as “the aggregate of features and traits that form the individual nature of some person.” Simply put, character is who you are. There are many traits that comprise who we are, and these qualities can be positive or negative. For example, positive fragments of our character can include Christ-like attributes known as the fruit of the Spirit (i.e., love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control). Conversely, negative components of our character can include anger, envy, pride and arrogance, selfishness, fear, laziness, lack of self-esteem, etc. It is these repugnant elements that temporarily draw us away from God, cause internal and external pain and leave our character broken. One of the most dangerous traits that can manifest in our hearts is jealousy.

Jealousy is generally defined as “hostility toward one believed to enjoy an advantage.” As denoted in Proverbs 27:4, God makes it known that jealousy is worse than anger and fury. Wow, what a powerful revelation!!! Every single Christian, at one time or another, has been the perpetrator and originator of jealousy. But, why do we engage in such destructive behavior? At the heart of jealousy is a lack of faith in God. When we experience carnality in the arena of jealousy, we often ask God, “Why are you blessing them better than me? Why do you love them so much? Why can’t I have the same things that they have?” We reason that we should have the same possessions, wealth, job positions and promotions, recognition and praise, achievements and success, social standing, beauty, etc.

Should we question God’s providence and magnificent orchestration of life? God forbid. The secret to overcoming jealousy in our lives is to meditate on the fact that our God is not a God of lack, and He will supply your need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Let’s us begin to immediately put away childish things and put on the mind of Christ.