January 15, 2012 (Genesis 37-38; Psalm 7; Luke 15)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “Come on, let’s kill him and throw him into one of these cisterns. We can tell our father, a wild animal has eaten him. Then we’ll see what becomes of his dreams!” Genesis 37:20 NLT
Observation: Joseph’s brothers had become very jealous of him. So jealous, that killing him seemed to be right and justified in their minds. Jealousy led them to conspire to commit murder and then lie about it to their own father. They we’re outraged at the thought of Joseph’s dreams coming true and being about them. They would never bow to him! But God knows how to bend a prideful knee. And, He also knows how to preserve the lives of those He’s called to specific tasks. Truly He is a sovereign God, very much in control.
Application: Jealousy is a sin that we must intentionally keep watch for. It can overcome us before we know it and cause us to commit acts completely against a godly character. Jealousy can quickly turn into rage and completely blind us from discerning right from wrong. Almost always, jealousy leads to other sins as well. Lying, stealing, and cheating, all being justified by the unreasonable feelings caused by jealousy. It will turn siblings against one another and destroy families. It has been known to divide and split churches causing an ungodly division. Jealousy has a tremendous impact on our lives and it’s far too great a sin to ignore.
Prayer: Father, thank You for this day You’ve made, bless it and keep it. I pray You would cleanse my heart from the sin of jealousy and cause me to be filled with compassion towards others. Forgive me for being jealous of the blessings You give to others. By Your Spirit, reveal any sin in my life, so that I may repent and please You. It is my desire to live a life You would be well pleased with. With Jesus as my guide I’m sure to be successful. Thank You for Your blessings and protection, in Jesus name, Amen!