Most of us understand that it is unhealthy to envy others, to be jealous or to spend our time desiring or "coveting" what others have. However, a close examination of Scripture and the biblical stories shows us that envy is perhaps a far more serious sin than we've ever imagined. At the very least it can lead to dysfunction in our relationships, but it can sometimes lead even to violence and death!

In the most common and practical sense, however, the problem with envy is that it distracts us from taking responsibility for our own lives, and it's often a red flag that we're not trusting in God's purpose for us and for his creation. We're not trusting in his wisdom in creating us, his providence over our future, and ultimately, his love for us and for our ultimate welfare as part of his eternal plan.

Consider the power envy may have over your life. And then consider ways you can use it as an opportunity to trust in God's sovereign will and plan for you and your future.