It leads to frustration. It keeps us from enjoying our lives. It drives us toward extremes. It fosters anger. It spurs many to walk away from God’s purposes on their lives. It destroys faith. It breaks down love. It is ENVY.
David spoke about it in Psalm 73. Verses 2-3 read,
“But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled,
My steps had nearly slipped.
For I was envious…”
Envy takes root in our lives when we first, have expectations that aren’t based on truth. Second, we get envious when our view of life values the temporary over the eternal. And third, we get envious when we take our eyes off God and we focus on the lives and experiences of others.
What is the answer? David continued in verses 16 & 17,
“But when I thought to understand this,
It seemed a wearisome task,
Until I went into the sanctuary of God;”
Get with God. Worship Him. Listen to His Word. Let Him give you His perspective. And then decide what David decided.
In verse 25,
“And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you.”
And in verse 28
“But for me it is good to be near God;
I have made the Lord God my refuge,
That I may tell of all your works.”
During the summer months, our schedules change. And in the midst of all the new activities, travels and experiences, it is easy to let go of the One who is our everything! In Him is contentment and peace. In Him is joy everlasting. I encourage you to drop everything and get back to the sanctuary of God. Sit in His presence and the presence of His people. Reflect on His goodness and benefits. Express to Him your devotion. Let Him be your everything again.