Jealous Saints

As Christians it is tempting for us to envy sinners and their choices.  We look at the half-full side of their lives focusing on their pleasure and freedom.  We secretly believe they have it better, but we keep living right today because we know it is best and everyone expects it from us.  When our attitude is like this it gives off a pathetic witness, covering up the joy, peace, and hope that should be in our hearts.

This is why Proverbs 23:17 says, “Do not let your heart envy sinners, But be zealous for the fear of the Lord all the day.”  Solomon is warning us not to focus on the “good” side of sin.  We have no reason to be jealous of sinners, yet Satan convinces us, with one of his oldest tricks, that they have something we do not.  It is like giving a visiting child an old toy from the bottom of the toy box, your child suddenly decides it is the best toy in the world, even though it hasn’t seen light since Christmas.  Instead we must focus on our service and relationship to the Lord.  We must be zealous for it!  We must focus our minds on the blessings and riches of being a Christian.  We must monitor our relationships to ensure we are being influenced by devoted Christians, rather than running with sinners and feeling odd for our faith.  So the next time you become a jealous saint, tell yourself to stop, and be a zealous saint!