As they danced, they sang: “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands.” Saul was very angry; this refrain galled him. “They have credited David with tens of thousands,” he thought, “but me with only thousands. What more can he get but the kingdom.” And from that time on Saul kept a jealous eye on David.  1 Samuel 18:7-9

David had a “rags-to-riches” story. He went from shepherd to future king because God was blessing him. In one of the most famous battles of all time, the shepherd David defeated the giant warrior Goliath. This earned David a special position in King Saul’s court.  But as David was returning from battle, the women danced and began to sing about how great a warrior he was. They went as far as to sing that David was a better warrior than Saul which made Saul bitterly envious of David.  Saul’s jealousy began spiraling out of control. He lost his mind, and eventually his kingdom because he couldn’t focus on what he had. Instead, he wanted only what David had.  Envy and jealousy are not to be taken lightly. Because if these elements start to take root in your mind, they could cause the best things in your life to slip right through your hands.

Dear Lord, Without any conscious effort, the mind can go straight to jealous and envious thoughts about what others have and what I may lack. Please help me to be aware of these issues whenever they start to sneak into my life. Also help me to honor You always in my thoughts and actions and be thankful for everything You have given me. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.