ENVY

It is a spiritual cancer that destroys you from within and undermines any personal contentment. There will always be someone with more of what this world offers (power, fame, wealth, etc). Feelings of resentment can rise to the surface ... especially when you see ungodly men prosper. The Word of God admonishes us to control that impulse. 

Do not envy sinners. Instead, continue to fear the Lord. Proverbs 23:17

Jealousy causes you to forget all that Jesus has done on your behalf. Though you are confronted daily by this world's ill-conceived standard for success, the Holy Spirit's sanctifying power brings the divine discernment you need to combat selfish ambition ... 

M R De Haan II - The only way to keep jealousy and envy from turning into major disasters is to draw on the wisdom that comes from above, wisdom that is pure, peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, and full of mercy and goodness. 

Recognize 'envy' for what it is; SIN. Confess it, reject it, and reflect on all that you have in Christ until you are gripped not by jealousy ... but by joy. 

When you see the prosperity of today's unsaved ego-driven professional athletes and Hollywood elites, remember that their lifestyle has no depth of meaning and is but a temporary earthbound existence. Their 'above it all' opinions about life cannot hide what they are in the eyes of God ...

Thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: Revelation 3:17

Remember, pilgrim ... God is 'Jehovah Jireh', your Provider.

Don't allow a prideful desire for material gain to creep into your walk of faith. Keep your eyes on the promise of eternal life with your Redeemer, the Lord Jesus Christ.