Brothers and sisters, there are going to be times in our lives
when someone else gets an unexpected blessing
or receives some special recognition.
May I plead with us not to be hurt--and certainly not to feel
envious--when good fortune comes to another person?
We are not diminished when someone else is added upon.
We are not in a race against each other to see
who is the wealthiest or the most talented
or the most beautiful or even the most blessed.
The race we are really in is the race against sin,
and surely envy is one of the most universal of those.
Furthermore, envy is a mistake that just keeps on giving.
Obviously we suffer a little when some misfortune befalls
us, but envy requires us to suffer all good fortune that
befalls everyone we know!
What a bright prospect that is--downing another quart
of pickle juice every time anyone around you has a happy
moment!
Coveting, pouting, or tearing others down
does not elevate your standing, nor does demeaning someone else
improve your self-image.
So be kind, and be grateful that God is kind.
It is a happy way to live.