ENVY

Envy does not just want what another person has, but resents him for having it. The word is derived from the Latin 'invidia' which means 'to look upon with ill-will'. Those who are envious cannot bear to see the prosperity of others. 

Matthew Henry - A fretful, envious, discontented spirit, is its own punishment; it consumes the flesh, preys upon the animal spirits, makes the countenance pale, and is the rottenness of the bones. 

When it goes unchecked, envy becomes an intractable emotion that degenerates into intense hatred. Instead of being motivated to better one's own circumstances, the man steeped in this sin seeks to malign and discredit anyone with a possession, achievement, or quality he covets for himself. 

According to Scripture, it is one of the most odious and detestable of all vices ... Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy? (Proverbs 27:4)

Unlike 'jealousy' (i.e. wanting to 'also' have what they see someone else possess), envy desires to deprive another of what he has. Jealousy is directed toward a specific object ... envy is directed toward a specific person. 

Paul lists 'envy' with the sins that condemn one's soul ... Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: sexual immorality, impurity, indecent behavior, idolatry, witchcraft, hostilities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. (Galatians 5:19-21)

Envy is the enemy of contentment. When one is focused on what he doesn't have, it is impossible to express thanksgiving. Peter commands that we expel it from our walk of faith. Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander, (1 Peter 2:1)

Eschew 'envy', pilgrim ... for it not only grieves the Holy Spirit but weakens your hunger for God's Word.