“As iron is eaten away by rust, so the envious are consumed by their own passion.” (Antisthenes)

In today’s readings, we are taught in both the Old Testament and the New about the dangers of jealousy and envy. Today, those vices are still as prevalent as ever… maybe more so. Due to the advent and explosion of social media we can constantly find ourselves in a comparison battle with what seems to be everyone else’s good fortune as we struggle with some challenge or the other. Yet, struggle and control of our vices is part of the human condition and a necessary part of our human, spiritual, and intellectual growth.

One way to combat these daily unwanted feelings of comparison, jealousy or envy is to strengthen the opposing virtues to those vices. Let us continue this Lent to grow in kindness, happiness and love.

Colossians 3:12-15 tells us:

“As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful.”

Jim O’Day is the Executive Director of Integrity Restored, a ministry of Stewardship: A Mission of Faith, a 501c3 not for profit. Integrity Restored is a ministry providing education training and resources for those struggling with pornography addiction or exposure.

www.integrityrestored.com

Love uCATHOLIC?
Get our inspiring content delivered to your inbox every morning - FREE!

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here