Loving People Isn't EasySample

Love does not Envy

It truly celebrates the successes of others.
It compares less and compliments more.
It isn't bitter when someone's doing better.
It isn't resentful at another's revelries.
It doesn't one-up someone else's story.
It is completely content when the spotlight is on others.
It doesn't make a deal about being left out.
It is okay when forgotten at a vote of thanks.
It is secure and not threatened by other's victories.

It doesn't copy others; it is confident in its identity.
It isn't jealous of a friend's finances and following.
It runs its race with a fixed gaze on Jesus.
It doesn't worry about who appears to be running better.
It isn't intimidated by greatness but inspired by it.
It is as content on the sidelines as it is on the stage.
It cheers from the sidelines for a friend on the stage.
It doesn't covet someone else's crown.
It doesn't take offence at another's applause.

When it seems like nothing in life is going right...
Love doesn't wish it were someone else.

Love does not envy.

A few self-reflection questions:

1. Have you struggled with envious feelings towards people around you?
2. Can you think about what aspects of others' lives make you covet them or what they have?
3. How can you practice gratitude and contentment more intentionally?

Journalling Prompt:

Get your journal out and write down the phrase “­­_______ does not ENVY” (insert your name in the blank space). Now, use your creativity through words, art, painting, doodling, or whatever your creative expression is to bring this page alive intentionally – in a way that you’d remember to practice gratitude and contentment like 1 Cor 13 expects us to.