We're following the current teaching series, "Fighting Back," as we learn how to battle against the spiritual inhibitors of guilt, anger, greed, jealousy, lust and pride.

Read Proverbs 14:30

A heart at peace gives life to the body,

but envy rots the bones.

Reflect

Think about how your bones are the internal structure of who you are; their very presence and health keeps you upright. Why do you think the writer of Proverbs compares jealousy to the slow rot of a person's bones?

Respond

Remember that jealousy is a slow, insidious force for destruction. Though it initially feels good to give into it and to let it make itself at home in us, it will eventually eat us up from the inside out. Memorize this proverb and recite it to yourself when you feel envious of someone else. Let its harsh warning turn you away from jealousy.