Have you ever described someone as being green with jealousy? Jealousy will color your conversation and behavior with a sick attitude that breeds adverse consequences.  The Scripture states that, “Jealousy is as cruel as the grave.”  The ingredient of jealousy, when added to the recipe of life will stir up anger that exhibits itself in acts of rage and cruelty.

Jealousy is destructive in nature because it can only produce strife. It is the initial motive behind many of the diabolical crimes committed against individuals in our society.  Jealousy manifests itself in envy and resentment.  Resentment produces hate.  Hatred produces violence. The reason for jealousy is beside the point.  It cannot be tolerated or justified.

 Song of Solomon 8:6

“…Jealousy is as cruel as the grave; the coal there of are coals of fire, which hath a most vehement flame.”

Practical Application and Assignments:

The story of Joseph describes a powerful lesson.  It is unthinkable that his own brothers could be capable of murder.  What they didn’t know was that this one act of jealous rage could potentially destroy the whole family.  Ruben was instrumental in saving the entire nation when he prevented his brothers from shedding Joseph’s blood.  Genesis 37-48

• Pray the prayer of St. Francis ofAssisiand expect life changing results: “Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injure, pardon; where there is discord, union; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy.”  Where there is jealousy, sow kindness.
• Count your blessings!   Do you have good health?  Do you have a roof over your head?  Do have food on your table and clothes in your closet?  Do you have someone who cares about you?  It is hard to be jealous of others, when you have an attitude of gratefulness.

“For jealousy is the rage of a man; therefore he will not spare in the day of vengeance.” Proverbs 6:34

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