The negative influence of jealousy and greed stems from our dissatisfaction in life and the sense of being envious of someone who has something we do not have. This form of “want” or desire for more is sinful at its core, leading to destructive behaviors if left unchecked. These behaviors stem from our continued enablement of sinful desires, such as belief systems that empower envy, strife, and division. Scripture encourages us to focus on God and what He has accomplished on the cross, not material things. This is because the more we focus on ourselves and our desires, the less we can focus on God. Jealousy and greed cause us to harden our hearts to the truth that God has provided everything we need in Christ.
Similarly, greed further manifests the desire for more than what God has provided for us in Christ. It is a negative influence that drives us to pursue wealth, power, possessions, and pleasure at the expense of other people and their relationship with God. Partnering with jealousy and greed will lead to a lack of contentment by focusing on material gain rather than spiritual growth. Freedom and emotional healing from this negative influence require agreement with the Holy Spirit’s empowering work to renew our focus on God’s kingdom and righteousness while serving others instead of ourselves.
Questions to Ask:
Describe the emotions you feel when those around you are successful.
How do you celebrate the blessings of others?
How satisfied are you with your life (possessions, relationships, career choice?)
Have you ever felt disappointed with the stages of your life?
Do you secretly struggle with personal contentment if others are successful?
Have you ever been jealous of others’ success?
Describe your internal monologue about other people's decisions/actions/judgments.
Do you ever wish others would not succeed or surpass your ability?
How would you cope with coming in as second best?
How do you identify with this statement, “I must put others down to feel good about myself?”
Are there any lies you believe about God’s Word, your identity in Christ, or God’s promises to you that may be influenced by jealousy or greed?
Connected Influences: Envy, suspicion, distrust, confrontation, want, materialism, discontent, stealing.
Scriptural Truth:
“Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce. 10 Then he will fill your barns with grain, and your vats will overflow with good wine.” (Proverbs 3:9-10)
“Don’t envy sinners, but always continue to fear the Lord.” (Proverbs 23:17)
“For I am jealous for you with the jealousy of God himself. I promised you as a pure bride[a] to one husband—Christ.” (2 Corinthians 11:2)
“So get rid of all evil behavior. Be done with all deceit, hypocrisy, jealousy, and all unkind speech.” (1 Peter 2:1)
“But if you are bitterly jealous and there is selfish ambition in your heart, don’t cover up the truth with boasting and lying.” (James 3:14)
How to Pray for Breakthrough from Jealousy and Greed:
You may pray aloud, using each step below:
REALIZE: "Lord, I confess (negative influence) is an area that limits my walk with You. Would You show me the first time I experienced this?"
RELEASE: "Lord, who I need to forgive for influencing this in my life. I choose to forgive (name of person) for (what they did or failed to do). It made me feel (share your emotions with the Lord). I release them from any debt they owe me and repent for judging them. I choose to bless them."
"Lord, do I need to forgive myself for how I responded to this negative influence?”
"Lord, am I holding onto judgment or unmet expectations of You because of this negative influence?"
REPENT & RENOUNCE: "I repent partnering with (negative influence). In the name of Jesus Christ, I renounce my agreement with (negative influence). I choose to hand this to You.”
Lord, I also renounce my agreement with (any connected negative influences).
RECEIVE: "Lord, what do You want to give me in exchange for the negative influence I have given You?"
What truth do You want me to walk in, based on Your Word, Your promises to me, and my identity in Christ?" (Write down and give thanks for the truths that you received from the Lord!)
You can break free from every negative influence present in your life! If you want to go deeper into the spiritual and emotional wholeness that God has for you, check out my book, Encountering Abba’s Heart, or use the purchase link below.
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