What is jealousy? CQ Kids

Jealousy is a feeling of anger or bitterness because someone has something that you don’t.
For example, Jesus never did anything wrong, yet the leaders of Israel were jealous of his power and influence over the people - even Pilate knew it! Mark (15:10, Contemporary English Version) says, “Pilate knew that the chief priests had brought Jesus to him because they were jealous.”
King Saul was jealous of David, concerned about losing his kingship to him. It may sound silly, but Saul overheard women singing that David was a greater warrior than Saul, and his destructive thoughts took control. Saul was SO jealous of David that he even tried several times to kill him! (HOMEWORK: Read 1 Samuel 18:5-9)

Human jealousy is an ugly emotion. It can damage our character, attitude and relationships. Here are three things we can do if we are feeling jealous of others:

Solution #1: Take a social media break.
Social media is about showing the best parts of life, usually presenting a false image. Jealousy can creep in when we think, “Oh, that looks so good; I wish I had that or could go there!” Of course, the job of an influencer is to make a certain “thing” look wonderful and important – so often giving the APPEARANCE of “perfection” that isn’t real!

Solution #2: Count your blessings.
Don't be distracted by the things you DON’T have. Rather, be thankful for the blessings you DO have.
The Apostle Paul had the right attitude. In Philippians (4:11-13) he says, “...I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. (4:11, NIV) I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or