1 Corinthians 13:4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud
In Othello (3:3), Iago says: “O! beware, my lord, of jealousy; it is the green–eyed monster which doth mock the meat it feeds on.” “It is thought to allude to cats, often green–eyed, who tease their prey,” according to Dictionary.com. It is such a fine line between the inspirational example we righty wish to imitate and the inappropriate desire to possess what belongs to another. We can be envious of the wealth of others, or their attributes (physical, intellectual, even spiritual), or their status, perceived or real. Often times our problem is not with the person we envy, but with ourselves or even God. When the focus of our lives is ourselves we are so often discontent with our shortcomings and weaknesses particularly as they compare to others successes and strengths. When the focus of our lives becomes God we learn to be content with whom we are, who God made us to be, and we begin to appreciate the amazing qualities God has given others rather than being threatened by them. This loving loss of self-concern opens a world of wonder, one which we were created to embrace and enjoy. Envy plays with us and destroys us. Love frees us to live lavishly. This week ask yourself, “Who do I envy” and how can I let the love of Christ into that relationship?
Logan Memorial Presbyterian Church 