Bible Study & Devotional 260
Guiding Scripture: Proverbs 23:17-18 ‘Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the Lord . There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.’
🔴Rotten Bones
written by: Torrie Slaughter
Envy is an emotion with staying power. It occurs when a person lacks another’s superior quality, achievement, or possession. We either desire it or more destructively think the other person doesn’t deserve it.
How do you know if you’re a jealous person? Well, one way to quickly measure is to pray and be honest about your feeling. Are you disgruntled or genuinely happy for other’s achievements or possessions? Think about your follow-up conversation. Do you find ways to demean or put down their success?
New Growth
We have a choice. Remain envious or speak the truth. Tell the person you had jealous thoughts and that you’re praying for deliverance from that debilitating emotion. Be honest with God, yourself, and your neighbor. Our Lord and Savior gives the power of love and self-control. When we surrender to His will, things change. It’s not a one-and-done event but a daily walk. That is the sanctification process.
Not Disturbed
My take-away from Proverbs 23:17-18 is not to let my heart be troubled (John 14:1). All the things we have, especially material wealth, are not a currency we can use in Heaven. Our hope rests in knowing Jesus is preparing a place for us. When He returns, there will be rejoicing and singing for those who abided in Him.
As you read today’s passages, think about the church body. What behaviors should we avoid to be more like Christ? Meditate on the numerous ways God warned His people to follow Him. While you pray, write, and consider your actions ask God to help you break the chains of jealousy, arrogance, and fear.
Prayer: Father, hear our humble cries. Thank you for listening to our prayers. Amen.
🔴 The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan
Isaiah 25:1-28:13, Galatians 3:10-22, Psalm 61:1-8, Proverbs 23:17-18
This devotional was written by Torrie Slaughter the founder of Our Given Purpose® for A Daily Purpose Bible Study & Devotional. Want to hear more? Tune in on Mondays and listen to Our Given Purpose the Podcast and on Fridays to Talking on Purpose with Torrie the Podcast & Internet Show. Torrie also hosts a YouTube channel of the same name.
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Amen.Hallelujah. 🙏😊