Jealousy

"Jealousy" By Diane Webb

James 4: 8—"Draw nigh to God and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded."

Come as close as you can to God. As you move toward him, he moves toward you. You have to take the first step. God respects your free will and will not force himself on you. He beckons, he draws you near; but he will not come the whole way if you do not make a move toward him. You must keep your hands clean. Repent of anything that you are doing against God's will or is displeasing to him. Sometimes it's a simple act of disobedience. You must keep your heart clean as well. You cannot harbor envy, resentment, pride, or unforgiveness in your heart. If you are jealous of things your friends and neighbors have, get rid of the resentment. Be thankful for what God has given you. Don't always compare yourself and your life to others. Do not feel resentful when others have more than you. Do not hold a grudge against those who have betrayed or hurt you. Pray for those people and forgive them in your heart. You cannot expect God to forgive you and bless you with these evil things in your heart. The closer you get to God the more he will show you. He will help you remove anything that is keeping you from being even closer to him. Ask and he will show you.

Dear Heavenly Father, I pray you will show me anything in my heart that I need to cleanse and repent of. I am thankful for all the many blessings you have given me. I am happy for what my friends, family, and fellow church members have. I forgive anyone who has hurt or betrayed me. I pray for each of them that they might do your will and be showered with your blessings as well. I ask this in Jesus' name, Amen.