23 Apr, 2024
Our opening verse has an interesting context. John the Baptist was the one who baptized Jesus and publicly announced that Jesus was the Messiah. At some point, John the Baptist was arrested and put into prison. While in prison, John began to hear of the great things Jesus did and suddenly he became offended with Jesus. Perhaps, he became offended because he felt “left behind” in prison or because Jesus didn’t fight for his release. Eventually, John began to question if Jesus was truly the Christ. This is what envious jealousy, and offense can do to us. It can bring you to the point where you begin to doubt yourself. It can make you feel like your life is useless. You must fight against this vehemently by reminding yourself that the progress of another doesn’t mean you are failing. Say after me: Envious jealousy shall not rule over me in Jesus’ name!