A Prayer About Jealousy

When I begin to resent others for what they have

HOLY SPIRIT,

I have a strong drive to do my best and be the best I can be. That’s fine, I know, but this tendency makes me susceptible to seeing others as competitors as I compare myself to them and what they have. And that can lead to jealousy. I see someone achieving a milestone, earning an award, attaining status and recognition, or receiving a wonderful gift, and I begin to resent him or her for having what I wish I had. Forgive me, Holy Spirit. I know that left unchecked, jealousy can eat me up, consume my thoughts, and bring me down. Yes, I need to strive to do well, but I also need to be content with how you have made me and the gifts and opportunities you have given me. Just because only one team can win the grand championship in a sport doesn’t mean that the others are losers. Continue to show me when I’m having those jealous thoughts—do your convicting work in me. And give me the grace to sincerely celebrate with others in their successes.

Anger is cruel, and wrath is like a flood, but jealousy is even more dangerous. Proverbs 27:4