What Comparison and Envy Do To Us

Title: What Comparison and Envy Do To Us
Artwork by: YMI
Description: No one likes to talk about envy, but we’re so prone to comparing. Sometimes we secretly feel better about ourselves when we sense that we’re doing better than most. But usually, we don’t feel great when we’re really struggling in our work or relationships while others are happily enjoying their lives.

Yes, we know envy is bad, but perhaps it would be more helpful if we knew exactly how—all the ways it harms us. More importantly, it helps to know that God isn’t just telling us that we should not envy, He also gives us ways to face and fight this struggle. 

Don’t let envy take root in your heart, and don’t be discouraged if it’s crept in; there’s still hope for change.

ARTICLES ON COMPARISON AND ENVY

Why Comparing Can be Dangerous I won’t deny that I often compare myself with others, including family members and friends. Such moments make me realize that there are so many people out there who have talents and skills that far exceed my own, and which I may never be able to attain, try as I might.

5 Ways to Stop Envy I believe that all of us, at one point or another, will compare our lives with others. I too have done this numerous times. As a member of the worship team in my church, I used to compare my singing ability with those of other singers, and based my self-worth on my ability to sing better than others.

The Pitfall of Comparison I can’t stop comparing myself to others. “Is he smarter than me? Is she prettier than me? Does she have more friends than I do?” While it can sound like an innocent habit, I ended up being sucked into it, unable to be thankful for whatever I had.

How to Avoid the Comparison Game A few years ago, I was introduced to another kind of comparison, one that wasn’t the least beneficial. I had graduated but my career had yet to take off. I was far from achieving the accomplishments I’d set for myself. As I grew increasingly frustrated at the uncertainty of my future, I started to compare my situation to peers who seemingly had it all together. When was God going to answer my prayers for a job and alleviate my disappointment in myself?

Silence That Green-Eyed Monster In his play Othello, Shakespeare called envy ″the green-eyed monster″. The Puritan Richard Baxter also warned about envying God's gifts in others-that a man would rather the gospel not be shared and people remain unconverted, than see God work through someone else.