Jeff's Blog: Weekend In Review

Awesome weekend at Alive Church as we talked about the one emotional force that is a common denominator of every relational conflict: jealousy. Why jealousy? Because all conflict ultimately is rooted in the fact that one person in the relationship didn't get their way, that is jealousy.

So what's the big deal with jealousy? Here's what James says: "For jealousy and selfishness are not God's kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and demonic…wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and evil of every kind.”  James 3:16 (NLT) No one wants to have the results that James talks about in our lives. That being the case; what do we do to take on jealousy in our lives?

Pray. That should go without saying. After praying what are the practical Biblical things that we can do?

First, quit comparing your life to others and all that they have. Here's what Paul says about comparing:

“Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won't need to compare yourself to anyone else. For we are each responsible for our own conduct.”  Gal 6:4-5 (NLT)

Second, always celebrate God's goodness in the lives of other people. In Romans 12:15 the Bible says:

 “Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep.” Romans 12:15 (NLT)

 

Third, embrace God's goodness in your own life. Again, the words of Paul in the Bible:

“Always be joyful. Keep on praying. No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.”                   1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NLT)

 This week prayerfully look at areas you may need to confront and deal with jealousy. Take some time and list all of God's blessings in your life. Begin to develop the habit of being joyful at all times. Ask yourself who you need to celebrate with and practice being more empathetic and rejoicing with them.
 This week I challenged everyone to list 3 things everyday that they are blessed with, join the conversation on our Facebook.

Have a great week, see you next weekend as we wrap up our weekend talk series Enemies Of The Heart as we talk about the ONE KEY to spiritual growth and fulfillment!