Genesis Thirty - Seven

Jealousy can cause one to do things that they would not otherwise do in 'sane' situations. Here we find Joseph's brothers with so much jealousy towards Joseph that it turns into hatred. This is always a risk.

Jealousy is a creature that begins small in the heart. Many times it is birthed from something so small that we do not originally address it. However, as time passes it gains power, grows, and eventually if left unchecked will take over the whole self. This is what we see with the brothers here. Their jealousy of Joseph has led them down a road of being willing to sell him into slavery.

Verse three states that Israel loved Joseph because he was born to him in his old age. It wasn't anything Joseph did. Just because of who he was. Jealousy is often misdirected. The brothers should have been jealous that Israel did not love them as much. Not because of a love that Joseph received for just being loved. Perspective in the face of jealousy means everything.

Andy Stanley wrote a great book with some great insight about jealousy. "It Came From Within". You should pick it up at Amazon.com.

"Father, help me today keep any bit of jealousy in perspective to Your indescribable gift."

Heart and Soul
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