Have you ever watched something good happen to someone you know, and you felt a little sting in your heart? Maybe they got a cool new toy, went on an amazing vacation, or won an award that you wanted. That little sting has a name—it’s called envy, and it’s something everyone struggles with sometimes.

Envy is when we feel upset or bitter because someone else has something good that we don’t have. It’s like a weed that grows in our hearts when we’re not paying attention.

The Bible is full of stories about people who struggled with envy! Rachel was jealous of her sister Leah. Joseph’s brothers were so envious of him that they sold him as a slave. King Saul was jealous of David. Even some Christ-followers in the same church in the ancient city of Corinth were envious of each other! Behind all of this, Satan himself was jealous of God.

Envy is like poison that hurts us more than anyone else. When we’re constantly comparing ourselves to others and feeling bad about what they have, we miss out on enjoying the good things God has given us!

Take Action: If you’re feeling envious of someone right now, try this three-step plan: First, confess to God that you’re struggling with envy (He already knows, but it helps to admit it). Second, write down all the unique and special things He’s given YOU—and thank Him for them! Third, pray for the person you’re envious of—ask God to bless them even more! This might seem impossible at first, but God will help you, and you’ll be amazed how this changes your heart from bitter to grateful!