Jealousy is a Green-Eyed Monster
By Andrea Merrell
The green-eyed monster of jealousy. We’ve all battled with it to some degree at one time or another. It’s part of our carnal nature. The Bible says, “You must not covet … anything that belongs to your neighbor” (Exodus 20:17 NLT).
If God instructs us not to covet, why is it so hard to
overcome? It usually begins in childhood. Mary has a nicer outfit. Ricky has a brand-new
skateboard. Margie’s family has a swimming pool. Left unattended, jealousy
escalates in the teen years and morphs over into adulthood. As writers, this is
a subtle enemy that can steal our peace, our joy, our purpose, and our God-given
destiny.
We all have our heroes, people in the industry we look up to
and want to emulate. Having these people as our inspiration is fine as long as
we don’t allow our admiration to become an obsession.
I’ve heard writers say, “Look at her. How did she get a
contract so fast? I’m a better writer than she is.” This is another familiar
statement: “I’ve been writing longer than he has. How did he get so successful?
It’s not fair.” On the other hand, some might say, “If I could only be like
_____ (fill in the blank). She has it all together. She’s talented, outgoing,
and … well, I just can’t compete.”
And therein lies the problem: trying to compete.
Jealousy not only causes competition, it can create a
stronghold that produces bitterness and a critical spirit toward those we view
as successful. The Bible tells us, “Jealousy is like cancer in the bones” (Proverbs
14:30 NLT).
The Word for You Today says:
In essence, envy says to God, “You made a mistake when you made me like I am. I want to be like that other person and have what they have.” Jealousy is like a moth; it nibbles away at clothes until they’re ruined, except envy destroys irreplaceable things like relationships and families.
(We could add
to the list: writing careers.)
Writer, you are special. You are unique. There is no one else
like you, and no one is able to do what God has called and equipped you to do.
Don’t allow the green-eyed monster of jealousy to steal that from you. When
you’re tempted, pray this prayer:
Lord,
thank you for the gifts, talents, and abilities you have placed inside me.
Thank you for the words that flow from my heart to bless others. May I never
give jealousy a foothold in my life.
Photos courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net, graur codrin, and Stuart Miles.
That green-eyed monster finds us all at one point or another.
ReplyDeleteCandyce Carden
This post really hits home! Jealousy is something everyone struggles with at some point, and your breakdown of its effects is powerful and relatable. I appreciate how you’ve highlighted the importance of self-awareness and positivity in overcoming those feelings. It’s a great reminder that focusing on our own growth is more productive than comparing ourselves to others. In creative industries, like photography or design, trusting a professional clipping path company can help elevate your work and give you the confidence to stand out without comparison. Thank you for such a thoughtful and timely piece!
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