Envy and Arrogance

“Love does not envy, does not parade itself, is not puffed up…” 1 Corinthians 13:4

Oh, how we want what we do not have! We envy what others possess, or what we imagine we need. We feel entitled to recognition, and often imagine ourselves as bigger or more important than we really are. What a different life Jesus calls us to!

Love does not envy. Jesus was never discontent or covetous with regard to another’s advantage, success, or possessions. He knew His heavenly Father saw His earthly needs, and provided enough. Jesus was content. He allowed others to enjoy what they had, while still encouraging them to give to those less fortunate—though He never considered Himself one of those less fortunate. He had no need of earthly advantages or success. His kingdom did not consist of those things. He was completely satisfied within Himself. He didn’t strive to be like anyone else but His Father.

Self, though, is envious, wanting what others have. Self is never satisfied with what it has been given, and perhaps is not content until it has what others have. Self compares its lot in life with everyone else’s. We are often unsatisfied just being who God has made us, for we are looking outward at everyone else. We clutch and grab and take and strive, whining and complaining when others don’t help us get ahead.

Love does not parade itself, and is not puffed up. Jesus never put on a show, but quietly worked behind the scenes, often unnoticed, not trying to be seen or heard, not public, not loud, not taking center stage, not smiling and waving to the crowd as if He was Somebody important, yet being the preeminent One from the beginning of days. He wasn’t arrogant, although He was above all else. He did not treat others condescendingly, though He was the very Son of God. He didn’t require them to bow before Him. Didn’t act like everyone should know who He was. He came to serve in the lowest place, though the highest place belonged to Him.

Self shows off, entertains others, and wants to be noticed, recognized, and rewarded for showing love or kindness to others. When I make sure everyone hears what I know, how I feel, what I think, and what I want, this is self. When I feel the urge to tell everyone the great things I’ve done for others, this is not love. We are easily puffed up with importance. We think we are funny, clever, smart, and right. But we are wrong to lift ourselves up with arrogant importance, for all glory belongs to God.

Oh God, forgive me for being important in my own eyes. Help me to humble myself—before You have to humble me! May I rejoice for others when they excel or receive recognition. Help me to love quietly and humbly with no thought of my own importance, without expectation of reward, for You will reward true love in Your own time and way. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.