Envy Is The Enemy of Contentment
The lack of contentment in our society today is extremely dumbfounding. We strive to attain things that we don't need, with money that we don't have, to impress people that we don't like. The Bible says in Ecclesiastes 4:4 that "most people work hard to succeed because they envy the things their neighbors have."
Envy is one of the main driving forces in today's culture. It is completely self destructive and robs us not only of our joy, but from loving those who matter most. At times, we get so consumed in the pursuit of "more" that we completely take for granted our simplest blessings. We become so focused in being or having more than everyone else that in many cases, we even neglect our loved ones.
In August of 2012 I lost my mother to 3 1/2 year battle with cancer. She fought a good fight but at the end, she lost. I can't say that I have any regrets in my life but one. I regret not picking up her calls when she called me simply to say hi. I regret not spending more time with her while she was still alive and well. I regret not appreciating her as I should have because I was too "Busy" chasing "Stuff".
Death became extremely real to me the day she died. In some way, I can say it kind of woke me up. As she took her last few breaths, the only thing she cared about was spending the last few minutes of her life with the people she loved, everything else was meaningless. Her success, her accomplishments and her material possessions were completely worthless!
The bottom line on envy is this: When you’re envious, you’re in a battle with God. You doubt God’s goodness in your life. You resent His decision to bless somebody else. You accuse Him of being unfair. You don’t believe He has your best interest at heart and you accuse Him of playing favorites.
I would encourage you to take some time today and reflect on how blessed you truly are. There are millions of people all over the world who at this very moment, would do anything to spend a day in your shoes. Love and appreciate those around you and make it a daily habit to thank God for everything he has done, is doing, and is about to do in your life!
In Christ,
- Alex
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