Envy’s Enemy

Ruth

From that time on Saul kept a close eye on David.

—1 Samuel 18:9

Not long after young David killed the Philistine giant, Goliath, King Saul took him into his home. The Israelites’ fear and dread of their enemy had disappeared in an instant when David, then a young shepherd, picked up a few smooth stones and silenced Goliath for good.

Things were going well for David. He was young, handsome, victorious in battle, and now residing with the king and his family. Things were going too well. For it wouldn’t take long for King Saul to begin growing suspicious, insecure, and envious of David’s successes in battle.

On one occasion, as David was returning from another win on the battlefield, he was met with a chorus of praise: “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands” (1 Samuel 18:7). King Saul took note not only of David’s win but his own successes compared to David’s. In verse 9, we read that “from that time on Saul kept a close eye on David.” In other words, Saul became envious of David.

King Saul was unable to celebrate David’s success. He wanted the praise that rightfully belonged to David, and as a result, he became envious. He kept a “close eye” on him.

This is how envy works. It is always comparing, competing, desiring, and watching. Envy wants what belongs to someone else. Envy is often blind to what God has given us that we don’t deserve. Envy steals our joy. Distorts our perspective. Snuffs out our gratitude. And it can even make us an enemy of those around us. This is exactly what happened to Saul, as the writer told us in verse 29, “Saul became still more afraid of him, and he remained his enemy the rest of his days.”

Who are you keeping a “close eye” on in your life? Is there someone you are secretly envious of? Have you made someone your enemy? Take your eyes off that person, and fix your eyes on Jesus. Remember all you have in Him. Delight in all He has done for you that you don’t deserve. Let gratitude fill your heart so you can love others instead of competing with them!

Jesus, You are my greatest treasure. You have done far more for me than I deserve. Guard my heart against envy. Help me keep my eyes on You. Fill me with joy and gratitude. Forgive me for wanting what doesn’t belong to me. Give me grace to humbly love You and love others. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Where have you noticed envy in your life?

How has envy caused you to secretly compare and compete with someone?