WISDOM'S JOURNEY: Do we envy? Proverbs 23:17

Do you envy?



TODAY'S PROVERB: Do not let your heart envy sinners,
but always be in the fear of ADONAI. Proverbs 23:17

Why would we envy sinners? What do they have, really, that we want?

There was a time when I wanted more--to live a bigger life. The cost of this desire was my time, money, resources, and shalom--my peace. It meant I had to sometimes close my eyes to my family and faith. The real things of this life.

Letting go of that want wasn't easy. It can be addictive. It took going back to the basics. Gratitude. Wonder. Love. Awe.

Realizing that the Creator of the Universe loves us, knows us, redeems us, provides for us is a great place to begin. Once we abide in that place, we will want to respond. All He asks in return is that we love Him back, then follow His way to live in this world.

And what has this world given us anyway? Fear. Hatred. Envy. Hopelessness. Temporary highs. Devastating lows. Demands on our lives that drain our happiness and wellbeing. 

Whatever power, fame, wealth, or stuff is only temporary. Any number of circumstances can occur to rip them from our hands.

What can replace the relationship with our Heavenly Father? Nothing.

The most expensive of possessions is dust beneath our LORD's feet. He holds our future, our hope, our joy, our salvation. He alone is worthy of our devotion. And, the beautiful thing is He wants everyone to share in all He has--no need for envy.

May we live in gratitude and love, my friends.

Proverbs 23:17, Tree of Life Bible Society, Tree of Life Version - TLV, #tlvbible, #tlvproverbs

[WATCH Tree of Life Bible Society's CEO, Daniah Greenberg and me, Terri Gillespie, Author dig a little deeper with this proverb. Check us out at Tree of Life Bible Society, Monday through Friday, LIVE at 8:30am EST. Watch previous episodes there as well. Stay wise, my friends!]

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