Jealousy arises from fear and insecurity and immaturity.  The jealous person is an immature person marked by a preoccupation with self.  Jealousy is one of the most destructive of emotions and sooner or later this green-eyed monster gobbles up all true love.  Jealousy feeds on suspicion, erodes trust, and arouses hostility.

What can be done about jealousy?  Unfortunately, there is no magic potion.  Jealous persons must begin by being ruthlessly honest with themselves and convinced that they can do something about this jealousy.

Jealousy must be seen for what it is: an unnecessary waste of something good, an unjustified spoiling of love and friendship.  Jealous persons must drop the hundred-and-one excuses that justify their jealousy. 

Jealous people must begin to deal with their immaturity and stop the attitude that they must be the center of attention.  They need to seek an attitude in which they can be openhanded and comfortable with allowing others their freedom, letting go of their possessive desires.

Jealous people are forever suspicious, judgmental, and intolerant.  The virtues of tolerance, trust, and peacefulness need to be sought after with diligence.  Jealous people mistakenly think that they can demand affection or love.  An attitude of freely giving love and affection as gifts and receiving them in return with an attitude of gratitude must be fostered daily.

Jealous people believe that they can push open the door of another's heart and demand entrance into another's life.  Yet the commitment to building love and friendship slowly on trust must be the new foundation that becomes the goal.

Envy or jealousy are certainly deadly sins which destroy innumerable relationships.  But even these spiritual sicknesses can be forgiven and healed by the grace of God.

(Tomorrow we will examine the antidote of love to combat envy.)