QUESTION: Is jealousy a sin? I admit I get jealous of people who are more talented than I am, or seem to have more advantages than I do. I even get jealous when I think people are getting too friendly with people I know. -- Mrs. A.N. ANSWER: The kind of jealousy you describe can be very destructive, and I hope you'll do everything you can to overcome it. Not only does it lead to mistrust, but it destroys relationships and eats away at your soul like an acid. No wonder the Bible says, "Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy?" (Proverbs 27:4). I am not a psychologist, of course, but I have observed that jealousy often comes from a person's lack of self-confidence. Down inside, they doubt if they are as good as other people, and they become overly sensitive to the way they are treated. There may be reasons for these feelings, often going back to the way they were treated as children. (A skilled counselor may be able to help you understand this; your pastor may know one). But listen: Those feelings are lying to you! The most important thing I can tell you is that God loves you, and you are of infinite value to Him. He loves you so much that His Son, Jesus Christ, was willing to give His life for you. The Bible says, "We know and rely on the love God has for us" (1 John 4:16). Begin by asking Jesus Christ to come into your life. Then ask Him, day by day, to help you overcome your jealous fears, by filling your heart and mind with the truth of His love for you. The Bible says, "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear" (1 John 4:18). ======== (This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.) (c)2018 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
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