Envy is a feeling of jealousy or desire for something another person has. Envy can lead to anger, bitterness and depression. Envy can also lead to violence and revenge. The Bible says that envy is a sin: “Let us not be covetous of boasting, irritating one another, envying one another.” Galatians 5:26
What are deadly sins?
Deadly sins are those considered the most serious in Christian doctrine. There are seven in total: gluttony, lust, avarice, envy, vanity, laziness and anger.
As we have just seen, envy is also one of the seven deadly sins: “A false witness who speaks lies, and he who sows strife among brothers.” Proverbs 6:19
Envy can destroy relationships and lead to separation and division, it can also lead to quarrels and arguments, and it can even lead to death.
Envy is a negative feeling and should not be cultivated as it will only bring pain and suffering. Such a feeling can only be overcome with love, forgiveness and compassion.
“Rejoice with them that rejoice; and weep with them that weep;” Romans 12:15
How to Overcome Envy
Envy can be overcome by prayer, Bible study, and cultivating a heart of gratitude.
Prayer is a powerful way to overcome envy. Prayer helps us focus our thoughts on love of God and in His goodness. Prayer reminds us that God loves us and that He gives us everything we need.
Bible study helps us understand what God says about envy. The Bible teaches us that envy is a sin and that we must overcome it. The Bible also teaches us that we must be grateful for everything we have.
Cultivating a heart of gratitude helps us overcome envy. Gratitude reminds us of all the good things we have in our lives. Gratitude helps us focus our thoughts on God’s love and goodness.
“Do not envy one another. Rather, let us be zealous for each other and caring for everyone.” (Romans 12:15)
How does envy come about?
Envy comes from a feeling of inferiority. When someone feels inferior to others, he begins to desire what they have andthem.
Envy can also be born out of bitterness. When someone is bitter, they tend to envy those who are happy and successful.
Envy can also be born out of fear. When someone is afraid of failing or not being good enough , can envy those who are more capable or who have more talent.
Finally, envy can also be born from a lack of gratitude. When someone is not grateful for what they have, they tend to envy those who have more.
Envy is a very complex feeling and can have a variety of causes. It is important to remember that envy is not a positive emotion and can lead to sadness, depression, and even violence. If you feel envious, try to work through these feelings and seek help if necessary
How to control the feeling of envy?
The first step in controlling the feeling of envy is recognizing that you are envious. Envy is a normal feeling and there is nothing wrong with feeling it. The problem arises when envy becomes an obsession or starts to negatively affect your life.
Once you recognize that you are envying someone, try to identify the reason. As we have already said, envy can have several causes. Identifying the reason can help you deal with the feeling.
Once you’ve identified the reason, try working on it. If envy is related to a feeling of inferiority, try working on your self-esteem. If envy is related to bitterness, try working on your gratitude. If envy is related to fear, try to face your fears.
Finally, remember that envy is a normal feeling. We all feel jealous from time to time. The important thing is not to let the feeling of envy take over your life and negatively affect your mental, emotional and spiritual health.
If you feel envious, try talking to someone about it. Envy can be a lonely feeling, and talking to others about it can help you deal with the feeling.
You can also seek professional help if envy is negatively affecting your life. A therapist can help you identify the reasons for your envy and work through those feelings.
