In Shakespeare’s Othello Act 3 scene 3, Iago says "O, beware, my lord, of jealousy; it is the green-eyed monster which doth mock."
It’s kinda crazy, but when we bring up the topic of jealousy, we might admit that we were jealous of someone when we were younger, but not now. In fact, we’ll point out jealousy in other people, but never admit it in our own lives. We’ll admit we’re angry or maybe even guilty, but no one ever admits jealousy--mainly because we think jealousy is simply an immaturity issue.
Whether we admit it or not, all of us are jealous of someone. You don’t know why you don’t like them, but if you’d dig around in your heart, I bet you’d discover you’re jealous of them. They’re ahead of you in some way or they have something you don’t have or they achieved something you haven’t or they gone places you’ve never gone. Whatever the case, your response about them is…“I just don't like them.”
But, chances are, the real problem is…you’re jealous…
And the closer you get to them, the worse you feel about you.
Here's the apostle Paul's challenge...
Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another. (Galatians 5:24-26)
**from "The Monster Within"--Part 03 free download at pathwayonline.org
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