Daily Scripture Threshing for Thursday, June 24, 2021
Today’s Text: Proverbs 14:28-35
Key Verse: Proverbs 14:30 (KJV): “A tranquil heart is life to the body, But jealousy is rottenness to the bones.”
In a recent Bible class, we have been blessed to state the distinction between jealousy and envy. Though both are a twin dagger that cuts the human hearts sore; and none is better than the other, learning the difference helps us find where we are, and how we may overcome the different technicalities that each presents. Envy is the desire for something which belongs to another person; while jealousy, in contrast, is the fear that something that you possess may be taken away by another person. A jealous soul perceives a neighbor as posing a threat. Jealousy makes us fear that something we esteem like job, prestige, possession, reputations, or opportunity may be taken away from by someone we perceive as better than us. I am involved in the struggle for the emancipation of/in my nation, and I see the evil seed of jealousy rearing its ugly head. And the reason is obvious: selfish individuals are anxious because they are afraid they may lose the loyalty they enjoy, and the ambition for power, to a rival.
The logical result of this kind of fear is the rottenness already foretold in the text. That feeling always follows complexes. Have you ever asked yourself why you feel angry that the other person is better, more attractive, more capable, and successful?! Do you know that such an attitude brings you under the yoke of jealousy? Unfortunately, the fear you nurture comes upon you. That is the rottenness. It wastes the strength of spirits and consumes your very drive for personal pursuit from your innermost part. That is why, for our own sake and good, we have been cautioned to covet nothing of our neighbors’. Envy or jealousy jolts distracts people from living their own life or pursuing their vision. Instead, it employs them unconsciously to emotions and appetites that eat up every healthy equilibrium (spiritual or physical). Unfortunately, this severe disease of the mind and the rottenness it brings to a person’s life can not be cured by clinical means. The only agency that removes, and destroys moral evil is Jesus Christ and His finished work of grace. Except a man surrenders to Him for help, every intent of his thoughts, the meditation of his hearts, and earnest industry of his hands continue to be bring nothing but rottenness.
Quote for the Day: “In biblical revelation, bitter envy and selfish ambition go together. They come from deep-rooted sensuality, unhealthy self-esteem, and denial of truth." (Simon Olatunji)
Prayer: Dear Lord, You have not given me the spirit of jealousy and envy. Please take full control of my heart, and destroy the seeds of envy. Give me a heart of gratitude and contentment, in Jesus' name. Amen.
With all my love and prayers,
Rev Simon Wale Olatunji, Ph.D.
The Darling Bishop (DaBishop)
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