Overcoming jealousy

[Karen Waldhart]

Reader Question - Africa: Hi, i am in a choir since 10 yrs, but i am very jealous of one of the members, she's very intelligent, and the way she is, is exactly how i wanted to be.... i really do not like these feelings coz i know that the fact that i'm there for long i am an exemple for others.These feelings really really destroy our relationships, and i would like that things go better coz i'm sure together we can do great things in teh parish. Pls, tell me what is the best way to react the best action

You are right to recognize the destructive effects of
jealousy in relationships. Ask God to forgive you for
the jealousy you have felt toward this person and then
begin praying for her on a daily basis. As you
unselfishly pray for God's blessing in her life, you
will find that God will help you change your jealous
attitude to one of God's love for her. I Corinthians
13:4 tells us that true love, the kind that comes from
God, "...suffers long and is kind; and does not
envy...". This kind of love is noncompetitive and
actually wants others to get ahead. Also,realize that
God made you unique with different gifts than your
friend, which can be used to bless people in a
different way. Ask God to show you ways to use your
gifts to better serve the people in your choir. As you
bless others, God will bless you.