Prayers for Hard Emotions: A 5-Day Devotional by Asheritah CiuciuSample

ENVIOUS

“But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold. For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.”

PSALM 73:2–3

RECITE GOD’S GOODNESS

O God of All Truth, You are perfect in all Your ways. Where humans see only a sliver of the big picture, You are above all things and behold the whole realm of what is real, both what is seen and unseen. Wisdom and understanding belong to You alone. You are indeed good, and I praise You alone.

EXPRESS YOUR NEEDINESS

God, when others have what I want, I struggle with bitterness and resentment. It’s tempting to compare and to cry “Not fair!” Forgive me, Father, for coveting. Help me humble myself before You and accept the portion You’ve given me.

SEEK HIS STILLNESS

Pause to consider the specific situations in which you’re tempted to envy. What is the gift that you desire, and how is that longing a good thing? In what way is God inviting you to experience satisfaction of that desire in Him?

TRUST HIS FAITHFULNESS

Father, every good and perfect gift comes from You, and if You’re withholding something, I will trust that You are doing what is best. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. I want to be grateful for Your generous gifts and not begrudge Your goodness to others.

For Further Prayer and Study

Proverbs 14:30 • Galatians 5:19–21 • James 4:2–3