ManageYourEmotionsBook8.5x5.5_RevJULY.indd

Rather than despair or overreact when that cloud of jeal- ousy closes in, give the Lord an opportunity to work through the situation.As theWord says, “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time” (1 Peter 5:6). Success is so much sweeter when we know that God paved the way for it. Contentment. Jealousy typically comes when we become dissatisfied with where we are or what we’ve received.We could all learn from the one who said, “I come from the greatest state in the country, the state of contentment.” As Shakespeare wrote in King HenryVI, “My crown is in my heart, not on my head; not decked with diamonds and Indian stones, nor to be seen: my crown is called content, a crown that seldom kings enjoy.” 9 Perhaps the renowned writer had these words from Paul to his young son the ministry in mind: “Godliness with con- tentment is great gain”(1Timothy 6:6, KJV, emphasis added). Diligence. It seems like now, more than ever, we live in an instant success society with no regard for the concept of “delayed gratification.” People want to accomplish in five years what it took the generation before them decades to achieve. I remind myself often of Jesus’ words from the parable of the talents: “Well done, good and faithful slave; you were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master” (Matthew 25:21). Resistance. “Resist the devil and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). Let’s face it, there comes those times when you simply need to “go off the grid.” I took Facebook off my phone and rarely look at it for reasons mentioned earlier in this chapter. It’s not that I’m being a spoiled sport or sore loser, I just found it to be mentally advantageous to make such a move. Celebration. The Bible tells us to: “Rejoice with those who rejoice” (Romans 12:15). Difficult though it may be, join in the festivities when others gain prominence, power, or possessions,

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