Love Does Not Envy

What is love?

Love is the greatest of all virtues, and the evidence we really belong to Jesus: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.  By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:34-35).

Since love is the preeminent virtue, let’s continue to give ourselves a biblical “love” test by looking closely at the words and phrases in the Bible where the only definition of love is found. 

The third biblical descriptor of love is “does not envy.”

A love lacking envy is content.  Indeed, contentment is the opposite of envy.  This love believes that Jesus is truly sufficient.  His grace is enough to make each day of your life fulfilled and meaningful.

Conversely, envy is never satisfied.  It always demands more.  Envy is an unquenchable lust that has no end.  It hurts your spiritual and physical well-being.  It erodes your soul.

Love that does not envy avoids the snare to compare.  It knows that envy denies the unique person God has created you to be. 

Are we envious?  Are we content in this moment?  In this season of life?

How are you doing with the third part of God’s love test?  Do you feel satisfied?  Do you enjoy your life as it is right now?  Or are you always lusting for more?  Something new or different?

I think now you are ready to answer.

“Love does not envy…”