The Evils of Envy, Resentment, and Hatred
The Green-Eyed Monster: Overcoming the Poison of Envy
Have you ever felt that twinge of jealousy when someone else succeeds? That gnawing feeling in your gut when a coworker gets praised, or a friend achieves something you’ve always wanted? You’re not alone. Envy is a universal human experience, but it’s also a dangerous one. As Shakespeare warned, it’s the “green-eyed monster” that can consume us if we’re not careful.
In Genesis 37, we see a vivid example of how envy can tear apart even the closest of families. Let’s explore the causes, consequences, and cure for this destructive emotion.
The Causes of Envy
1. When our sin is exposed
Joseph, the favored son of Jacob, brought “an evil report” about his brothers to their father (Genesis 37:2). How do we respond when someone points out our faults? As Pastor Stalnaker asks, “How many of you really enjoy it when someone comes up and confronts you about your sin?” Our natural reaction is often defensiveness or resentment.
2. When injustice is committed
Jacob showed clear favoritism to Joseph, giving him a special “robe of many colors” (Genesis 37:3). This blatant unfairness sparked hatred in Joseph’s brothers. “They hated him and could not speak peacefully to him” (Genesis 37:4). We, too, can become bitter when we perceive unfair treatment.
3. When God’s favor is given to others
God gave Joseph prophetic dreams, showing that he would one day rule over his family. His brothers’ response? “They hated him even more for his dreams and for his words” (Genesis 37:8). Sometimes, we struggle with jealousy when we see God blessing others in ways we desire for ourselves.
The Consequences of Envy
Envy is not a harmless emotion. As Proverbs 14:30 warns, “Envy makes the bones rot.” The story of Joseph and his brothers illustrates several devastating consequences:
1. It leads to unthinkable actions
The brothers’ envy led them to strip Joseph of his robe and throw him into a pit (Genesis 37:23-24). Unchecked jealousy can drive us to hurt others in ways we never thought possible.
2. It causes indifference to others’ suffering
While Joseph was in the pit, his brothers “sat down to eat” (Genesis 37:25). Envy can harden our hearts to the point where we no longer care about others’ pain.
3. It breeds dishonesty
The brothers lied to their father about Joseph’s fate, causing years of heartache (Genesis 37:31-35). Envy often leads us to cover up our actions with deception.
4. It results in long-lasting guilt
Years later, the brothers were still haunted by their actions (Genesis 42:21). The consequences of envy can linger far longer than we expect.
The Cure for Envy
So how do we combat this destructive force in our lives? Pastor Stalnaker offers several practical steps:
1. Respond properly when confronted with sin
James 4:6 reminds us that “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” When our faults are pointed out, we need to listen with humility, acknowledge our sin, and seek forgiveness.
2. Trust the Lord to right all injustices
Remember that God is just, even when the world isn’t. Deuteronomy 32:4 assures us that “all his ways are justice.”
3. Rejoice in God’s blessings to others
Instead of resenting others’ success, choose to celebrate it. This guards our hearts against envy.
4. Embrace forgiveness and reconciliation
Take the initiative to heal broken relationships, whether you’re the offender or the offended.
5. Live with an eternal perspective
Joseph’s response to his brothers in Genesis 45:7-8 is powerful: “God sent me before you to preserve for you a remnant on earth, and to keep alive for you many survivors. So it was not you who sent me here, but God.” Joseph saw God’s bigger picture beyond his immediate circumstances.
Life Application: Putting It Into Practice
- Examine your heart: Are there areas where envy has taken root? Confess these to God and ask for His help in overcoming them.
- Practice gratitude: Make a daily habit of thanking God for His blessings in your life and in the lives of others.
- Seek reconciliation: If envy has damaged any of your relationships, take steps to make things right.
- Cultivate contentment: Focus on God’s goodness in your own life rather than comparing yourself to others.
- Pray for perspective: Ask God to help you see situations from His eternal viewpoint rather than getting caught up in temporary circumstances.
Remember, envy is a poison that affects us more than those we envy. As we learn to recognize and root out this destructive emotion, we open ourselves to experience more of God’s peace, joy, and purpose in our lives.
God’s Grace In A Scandalous Story
Betrayed But Not Forgotten
Living With Integrity
Genesis in Focus: God’s Sovereign Plan
The Successful Man Who Failed Miserably
Doing God’s Will
We hope you enjoyed the sermon and would love to see you in person. Plan your visit to Community Baptist Church in Spring Hill, Tennessee today!