The Big Green Monster

How to Be Happy for Others and Trust God with Yourself

A calm and undisturbed mind and heart are the life and health of the body, but envy, jealousy, and wrath are like rottenness of the bones.

Proverbs 14:30 (AMPC)

I’m sure you’ve heard jealousy referred to as “the green monster.” I actually think it’s so common that we don’t realize how often we compare ourselves to other people.

However, having our minds set on other people’s business is one sure way to be miserable! Jealousy, envy, and comparing ourselves with others will never lead us in a positive direction. It’s the “wilderness mentality” that says:

“Why shouldn’t I be jealous and envious when everybody else is better off than I am?”

Years ago I struggled badly with comparisons because I was so insecure. If we are not secure in our own worth and value as individuals, we will find ourselves competing with anyone who appears to be successful and doing well.

I constantly compared myself to my pastor’s wife, who was so gentle, sweet, and nice to everyone. Why couldn’t I be more like her?

I also compared myself to my neighbor, an amazing homemaker who grew her own vegetables in her backyard and sewed all of her family’s clothes. I thought I should be doing that too.

Dave and I still laugh about the pair of shorts I made for him—the pockets were longer than the shorts themselves! Needless to say, he never wore them. The bottom line is the more I focused on comparing myself to other people, the more miserable I got!

Learning that I am an individual—that God has a unique, personal plan for my life—has indeed been one of the most valuable and precious freedoms the Lord has granted me.

God has made you to be unique and special, and there is no one on this earth who can be a better you. So, set your mind to be happy for others and decide to trust God with yourself.

It will take some time and persistence, but when this negative mindset has been torn down and replaced by the Word of God, you will be on your way out of the wilderness and into the Promised Land.

Study Tips: Read Luke 22:24-26; Galatians 5:26; John 21:21-22. What do each of these teach us about jealousy?

Walk It Out: Identify one area where you have struggled with envy or comparisons. What role do your thoughts play in the situation?

Try This: When jealousy strikes or you’re tempted to compare, make a decision to change your mindset and change the subject. Take a moment to thank God for who He made you to be…and ask for His help to leave the negative thoughts behind.