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.)

 

The truth is found in Jeremiah 29:11. ^“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future (NIV). Your calling and destiny are unique. God has a plan and purpose for you that no one else can fulfill. He can use you—and your words—to reach individuals whom no one else can reach.

 

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.