Envy, a destructive emotion characterized by a resentful longing for what others possess, is frequently addressed in the Bible as a vice that leads to spiritual and moral decay. The Scriptures provide numerous examples and teachings that illustrate the detrimental effects of envy on individuals and communities.

Biblical Definition and Context

Envy is often defined as a feeling of discontent or covetousness with regard to another's advantages, success, or possessions. The Bible warns against envy as it can lead to further sin and disrupt the harmony within the body of Christ. In Galatians 5:19-21 , envy is listed among the "acts of the flesh," which are contrary to the fruits of the Spirit: "The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and sorcery; hatred, discord, jealousy, and rage; rivalries, divisions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, carousing, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God."

Old Testament Examples

The Old Testament provides several narratives that highlight the destructive nature of envy. One of the earliest examples is the account of Cain and Abel. In Genesis 4:3-8, Cain's envy of Abel's favorable offering to God leads to the first murder: "Then the LORD said to Cain, 'Why are you angry, and why has your countenance fallen? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you refuse to do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires you, but you must master it.' Cain said to his brother Abel, 'Let us go out to the field.' And while they were in the field, Cain rose up against his brother Abel and killed him."

Another significant example is the account of Joseph and his brothers. In Genesis 37:11, Joseph's brothers become envious of him because of their father's favoritism and Joseph's dreams: "And his brothers were jealous of him, but his father kept the matter in mind." This envy leads them to sell Joseph into slavery, setting off a chain of events that would eventually lead to their own redemption and the preservation of their family during a famine.

New Testament Teachings

The New Testament continues to address the issue of envy, emphasizing its incompatibility with Christian virtues. In James 3:14-16 , the apostle warns against harboring envy and selfish ambition: "But if you harbor bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast in it or deny the truth. Such wisdom does not come from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice."

The apostle Paul also speaks to the destructive nature of envy in 1 Corinthians 3:3 , where he admonishes the Corinthian church for their divisions: "For you are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not worldly? Are you not walking in the way of man?" Here, envy is shown to be a source of division and strife within the church, hindering spiritual growth and unity.

Moral and Spiritual Consequences

The cost of envy is significant, affecting both the individual and the community. Envy can lead to a host of other sins, including hatred, deceit, and violence, as seen in the accounts of Cain and Joseph's brothers. It disrupts relationships, breeds discontent, and can even lead to spiritual death, as it is a manifestation of the flesh that opposes the Spirit.

Proverbs 14:30 succinctly captures the personal toll of envy: "A tranquil heart is life to the body, but envy rots the bones." This proverb highlights the internal decay that envy causes, contrasting it with the life-giving peace of a content heart.

Remedy and Exhortation

The Bible offers a remedy for envy through the cultivation of love, humility, and contentment. In 1 Corinthians 13:4 , love is described as the antithesis of envy: "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud." By focusing on love and the well-being of others, believers can overcome the destructive power of envy.

Furthermore, Philippians 4:11-13 encourages contentment in all circumstances: "I am not saying this out of need, for I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances. I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. I am accustomed to any and every situation—to being filled and being hungry, to having plenty and having need. I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." Through Christ, believers find the strength to resist envy and embrace a life of contentment and gratitude.