“A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.” Proverbs 14:30 NIV

Some folks are too insecure to applaud the success or achievements of another, be it a coworker, distant relative, sibling, spouse, or even a child. They feel that they must have comparable success, so they won’t feel inferior. If they can indeed claim a similar personal achievement, then they are quick to mention it. The truth is that someone will always have more success than you do, and someone will always have less. It takes daily, conscientious effort to fight discontentment and to enjoy whatever level of success God has blessed you with. Television commercials and highway billboards and even well-meaning family and friends send the message: “You’re lacking something. Buy this, buy that!” Solomon said, “Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil” (Proverbs 15:16 NIV). Hebrews 13:5 says, “Be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you’” (NIV). If you find yourself feeling the need to compete when a compliment is given to another, immediately recognize and renounce the spirit of insecurity that’s trying to ensnare you. Begin to reject this kind of behaviour by responding in the opposite manner. Practice being secure enough to enjoy someone else’s achievements. You will have to “practice” this, because there’s a good chance that you will not “feel” secure initially. Just do it. Allow your faith to dictate your behaviour. When you obey the Spirit and allow Him to determine your actions, the flesh grows weaker and must ultimately submit to the control of the Spirit.

The Word for You Today is authored by Bob and Debby Gass and published under licence from Celebration Enterprises, Inc. Copyright © 2024