We deal with jealousy in society a lot today. People are jealous of each other, whether it’s over careers, home life, the car they drive, their circle of friends, or the status of their families. I could name more, but you get the idea.
Do you want to know something? Jealousy is not a new problem in the 21st century. There are several stories in the Bible about jealousy. Allow me to share two of them with you today in regards to family. One comes from Genesis, and the other from 1 Samuel.
In Genesis 37:12 and following, we read about Joseph’s brothers selling him off to some Midianite merchants as they passed through. Why? Because the brothers harbored ill feelings toward their little brother. If you read the rest of the story, you’ll find Joseph prospers. Joseph held onto his faith in God regardless of the family discord towards him, and God blessed him.
In 1 Samuel 16 and following, we read about David tending sheep, and he is summoned by his father Jesse. Samuel anoints him as the Lords’. Later, we read that his father sends him to find his brothers, with the purpose of checking on them, and bringing food. David ends up in a battle with Goliath, and of course we know who wins – David. David’s brother Eliab, had burned with anger, and questioned why he came to them.
In both stories, we see jealousy among the traits of the brothers of Joseph and David. We also learn that these two young men, the targets of this jealousy, according to the Bible, had a few other things in common:
Joseph and David both:
- Tended sheep.
The Lord was with them.
They each went into the service of another at a young age, Joseph for Pontifer, and David for Saul.
They each were handsome and well built.
The Lord blessed each one.
Both were part of the lineage of Christ Jesus. Way cool!
Do we find any hints of jealousy in either one of these guys when you read their stories? I didn’t. All I found was evidence of a relationship with God the Father. All I found was faith. What do you see when you read the stories of these two men?
Jealousy can be a dangerous thing. I read last week that there is a difference between being jealous OF someone or something, and being jealous FOR something or someone. We’ll talk more about that later. In the meantime, chew on this for awhile.
Father, thank you for the message on jealousy. Something so prevalent in today’s society can be affected by two men from thousands of years ago, and how they handled it in their own lives. Lord you crafted everything beautifully, and knit it altogether for us. Why? Because you love us. Thank you. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
In His Service
Jeanette
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