Envy is condemned throughout Scripture as a destructive force that originates from pride and discontent. Proverbs 14:30 says, “A sound heart is life to the body, but envy is rottenness to the bones.” It eats away at the soul and corrupts the spirit.
The Ten Commandments warn against coveting what belongs to others (Exodus 20:17), which includes the desires that breed envy, possessions, relationships, status. Envy desires what others have and resents their blessings.
Galatians 5:19-21 lists envy among the works of the flesh, warning that “those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.” It stands in opposition to the fruit of the Spirit and must be put to death by the believer.
James 3:16 warns, “For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there.” Envy opens the door to chaos, bitterness, and division.
Cain murdered Abel out of envy (Genesis 4:4-8), and the religious leaders handed Jesus over to be crucified because of envy (Matthew 27:18). Envy blinds the heart and leads to sin.
Believers are called to rejoice with those who rejoice (Romans 12:15) and be content with what God has given. Philippians 4:11 teaches, “I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.” Contentment is the cure for envy.
1 Peter 2:1 exhorts, “Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking.” Envy has no place in the life of a child of God who trusts in His sovereign goodness.
