God’s Word for Today

2 Jul, 2025

4 Wrath is cruel, anger is overwhelming,

but who can stand before jealousy?

-Prov 27:4 ESV

WHO CAN STAND BEFORE JEALOUSY?

There is a severe strain caused by a fool's "provocation" (v.3), Solomon acknowledges the hurt inflicted by wrath and anger. Some damage is done to the targets of anger, some are done to the person who loses control to rage (Prov 14:17, 29; 15:1; 22:24; 29:22). "Wrath" is typically thought of as the result of "anger," but both usually end at some point. Especially in the worst cases, a person can wear themselves out or grow tired of expressing naked fury.

However, jealousy is different than wrath and anger. In what sense? For the simple reason that an envious person does not rest. An envious person has an obsession that what others have which he values should be his. While it doesn't burn as hot or violently as pure rage, a jealous feeling can persist until it leads to an act of revenge. Even then, it is usually not entirely satisfied. Thus, it is one reason the Bible warns us against pursuing revenge (Rom 12:19).

The Bible condemns jealousy outrightly. The apostle Peter exhorts believers to put aside envy (1 Pet 2:1). The apostle Paul includes jealousy and envy in his list of works of the flesh (Gal 5:20–21). He notes that a life marked by persistent envy and jealousy is one separated from the Holy Spirit (Gal 5:21).

One classic example is King Saul becoming jealous of David. How did it happen? When Israelite women sang David's praises, "Saul has struck down his thousands, and David his ten thousands." (1 Sam 18:7). This comparison has enraged Saul, and he hated David from that day on. Not long after, Saul’s heart was churning within with jealousy. He tried to kill David many times. (see 1 Samuel 18:7-11). As Shakespeare said, “Envy is a green-eyed monster – a destructive force that consumes one’s being.”

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