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October 23, 2007

Free From Envy

by Shana Schutte

Have you ever seen how God has blessed another person and thought, "Why haven't You given me what she has, God? I've prayed more for the same gift and I'd be a better steward of it than she is! Lord, why?" When we feel like another person is undeserving of the blessings we want, isn't there something in us that sometimes wants to scream, "God! What are you thinking?"

I just caught myself in that line of thought. As I write, a young couple embraces by my table at Starbucks. Their lips lock in a symphony of togetherness while they wait for their lattes. I have to look away as raindrops of grief pelt my soul. Look at what they have and look at me--I'm sitting here romancing my laptop and a White Chocolate Mocha.

Don't worry, I'm not staying in self-pity mode long because I know the truth: If any woman (or man) wants to experience that abundant life of Christ, there is no room for envy in our lives. Why? Because envy is a sign that we feel overlooked by God and that we are not convinced of His love. In Scripture, God says that we can be content because His presence is constant (Hebrews 13:5). If I want to stand strong in God while I grieve what I don't have, I have to choose to believe that He has a very personal plan for my life. Go ahead and smooch while I enjoy my coffee.

The love of God that helps us guard against envy is not only constant as Hebrews indicates, but it's love that has our best interest in mind and is all powerful. That means that no one can steal your purpose, destiny, relationships or work. All trials that are allowed in our lives are filtered through God's hands of care. Your entire destiny--and mine--is secure with the God who carefully watches over all that concerns us.

"It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect" Psalm 18:32 (NIV)

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