Jealousy

I had never noticed so vividly that when Saul disobeyed God a tormenting spirit of depression and fear came over him and that was the first time he sent for David. He fell in love with David for his playing of the harp made the spirit leave and Saul was feeling better. Their relationship started off in service and as a way of helping someone, it was a blessing.

He gave him a confidence to win the battle, David served him in his courts and made great victories for him. When reports reached Saul that David was more esteemed and talked about with such favor it stirred jealousy in Saul. It was rooted in the fact that the Lord was with David and that caused Saul to spiral in more fear. His steps going forward were to lead in manipulative behaviors to try to deceive David to take him out of the picture completely. He used influence and people to speak into David’s life to try to get him to accept the kings offer of marriage even when David couldn’t pay the bride price. There was evil intentions in his generous offer. The jealousy of David’s success and his daughter’s love for him didn’t sit with him, it tormented him inside.

It is interesting to note that when David began to serve with the Lord’s anointing, that the one who was perhaps most blessed around him started to not bless him in return. The jealousy took root.

How fatal jealousy can be, we must beware. Even jealousy towards those in lower positions or serving in the house of the Lord. We must all keep to our path and work hard for the Lord. Not comparing but knowing everything is from God and to serve well. To live quiet peaceful lives and working hard for the Lord. It is never in our strength but His. May he equip us all with His strength in our weaknesses and keep us from comparison. We are all vessels working for the glory of God. To whom more is given, more will be expected. Let us use and grow what we have and God will bless us for it.