Text: Numbers 12:1-9
Topic: Dealing with envy
Brief
Meaning of Envy
Those that would be envied
Some records of envy in the scripture
Reward/impact of envy on Mariam
Dealing with Envy
Brief
Those who have been envious of you will see your mistakes quickly and dwell more negatively on it/them than most people, This was what Mariam and Aaron displayed when that portion of the scripture is studied systematically especially the first two verses of the book of Numbers chapter twelve, in verse one they complained about the Ethiopian wife that Moses married(undermining the circumstances that warranted it or the kind of forty years sojourn/training that God put him through at that time or what God was saying about it).
Occupying positions isn’t an excuse for scuttling ancient paths/landmarks for any reason, leadership by example/influence is still the best both managerially and spiritually, knowing the way, walking the way, and leading by action, however, to the led, it is important to research more, consult more, know more than talks/revolts James 1:19, the divergence nature of these consecutive verses speaks volumes, but they eventually voiced their main issue with him in the next verse “HATH THE LORD SPOKEN ONLY BY MOSES”.
May God help us to live a life void of reproach even as leaders in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Meaning of Envy
·
Envy
is when someone is not happy, losing his/her peace because of someone else’s
position, achievements, skills, approach, personality, etc.
·
Aristotle
defined envy as pain at the sight of another’s good fortune (paraphrased)
· It is one of seven self-destructive habits: Lust 2 Tim.2:22, Gluttony 1 Cor.10:31, Greed Heb.13:5, Sloth Prov.6:6, Wrath Rom.12:9, Envy Prov.14:30, Pride Jer.9:23-24.
Some more on envy…
·
Envy
bitterness and strife all work together James 3:16-18.
·
It
is a show of the fallen state or a low-on sanctification index.
·
It
is a show of ingratitude to who and what God has made one to be and have (The grass
is not greener on the other side)
· It is a sin. 1 Cor.3:3, may God purge us all of this virus and other sins that could take us to hell in Jesus' mighty name.
Those that would be envied (ministry perspective).
Those that are saved.
Those that trust/rely on the power of God alone.
Those who are leaders/priests/ministers.
Those who are graced with the gifts or fruits of the Spirit.
Those who enjoy the grace of men (connection and relationship)
Those who do God’s work whole passionately.
etc
By implication, every child of God is a potential recipient of envy (our Lord and savior Jesus Christ had His fair share, however, it is better to be envied than pitied, prepare for envy so it won’t catch you unawares and you won’t react out of proportion.
Some records of envy in the scripture
·
Joseph’s
brothers to Joseph Gen 37:13 ff
· Racheal
and Leah Gen.29:31-32
·
Saul
to David 1
Sam.18
· The
Jewish leaders to Jesus Matt.27:18,
Mark 15:10
·
The
Corinthians of themselves and spiritual giftings 1 Cor.3:3
· Cain and Abel
Reward/impact of envy on Mariam
·
The
Lord was angry with them vs.9
·
She became leprous and was cast out vs.10
·
The
movement of the whole group was delayed vs.15 & 16
Dealing with Envy
We would try to glean some lessons from the reaction
of Moses to the situation at hand:
1. Do not verbalize or take any physical action
against envy, envy is a physical/fleshly/humane reaction to spiritual reality
as every good gift and perfect gift comes from above James 1:17.
2. Pray that the Lord takes control and calms you, but
you may need to tell your supervisor, or spiritual father/leader just in case vs.4
ff.
3. Pray for the culprit. It is hard work following or
watching someone else do what they (the envious) think they should do. Vs.
2&13
4. watch and pray envious people who refuse the control of God’s spirit could be a danger
Shalom.
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