BEWARE THE GREEN MONSTER OF
JEALOUSY: Part One
Proverbs 27:4 (NKJV) Wrath is cruel and anger a torrent, But who is able to stand before jealousy?
Greater and greater numbers of articles,
books, research and comments are emerging
on the sociological scene concerning the
concept, or the sense, of entitlement seeming
to be displayed in the individual life, various
generational groupings and the corporate
scenario. Addressing it, and what's more,
attaching it to certain and various age groups
and economic social brackets stirs up deep
feelings and resentment. Regrettably,
whomever it may apply to, though it cannot
be generalized, we need to ask why it has
become a growing issue. It, furthermore,
seems to be directly associated with
narcissism and self-centeredness. Lots
of finger pointing, blame and shame is going
on concerning this very real but difficult to
address attitude. But we need to find
out what it really is, and where does it come
from?
Some analysts blame it on poor child rearing
techniques, and say its the fault of one
generation's ideologies about the need for
enhancing identity in the youth. Others say,
its related to unrealistic expectations, poor
work ethics, neediness, and a "hyped-up"
identity developmental concept that fails to
encourage disciplines for personal growth.
Who is to really say, since we can't ignore
the fact that every individual has a choice
and is influenced by a multitude of factors.
In the past 10 years or so, I've been watching
people's behaviors and attitudes change.
The things that worked for me in the past 20
some years, as a teacher, mentor, and
minister don't work for the most part any
longer. The reason I have come to the
conclusion is; entitlement.
I recently stayed in a home where 5 children
under the ages of 12 were being raised up by
two very disciplined, and wise parents. I
intentionally observed the parenting methods
and manners of this skillful married couple.
But what struck me was that they were
dealing with some of the very same issues I
had struggled with and confronted with
students, fellow workers and believers in general.
To my shock, the parents were succeeding in
To my shock, the parents were succeeding in
training these young ones. I realize the
children have to still grow up, but what intrigued
me was how these children had a conscience
quick to recognize their wrongs, almost always
immediate to repent for their behaviors, and what's
more, submit to the reasonable disciplines of the
parents. This was very interesting to watch.
In saying all this, and taking a risk because there
is no way I can fully develop this thought
process here, I am not blaming the previous
generations, for the issues of entitlement arising
on the scenes. This is because I believe each
generation develops out of the pitfalls and
strengths of the ones before. But I think, in some
ways, what we are calling entitlement, is actually
more accurately, the manifestation of jealousy.
Or, you could say that entitlement is the
stronghold, or platform for jealousy.
Jealousy is cruel and thrives in self-centeredness.
I am wanting to delve into this a bit more in these
posts because I think there is a prayer strategy and
manner of ministry that we as believers need to
become aware of and practice if we are to reach
the generations coming after us.
how jealousy works. Perhaps you have too. But,
bear with me as I take some time to reveal what I
believe is coming to be a major problem in the
Church. The green ugly monster of jealousy, as
its described for many many years, is on the
prowl. But you don't have to yield to it, nor do
you have to become victim to it's schemes. Be
watching for more posts on this subject soon. I
believe they will be very helpful to you.
