Daniel 6:22, "My God sent His angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me," Romans 12:2 "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will."

Think

Daniel's life caused a lot of jealousy among those on the outside looking in.  He had the favor of King Darius and was about to be put over the entire kingdom.  Those jealous of Daniel couldn't understand how he gained such favor when he was an exiled Jew.  What they never recognized was that Daniel's success was because of God's favor. And God's favor was a result of Daniel's faithful obedience. When we look from the outside in to the lives of others, we may sometimes think "It must be great to be them!" Everything seems to go right for them. Their life hashtag could be #BLESSED.  Then we start the comparison game and instead of applauding, we begin to allow jealousy to infect our lives. However, if we were to take a look behind the curtain, we would often see that the road to #BLESSED isn't always easy. It often includes many ups and downs, many difficult decisions. When someone is self-aware, they understand that to experience God's blessings, they need to be in God's will.  This pattern of decision-making is how Daniel lived his life.  It is also how we can live our lives.  Instead of allowing jealousy to creep in, begin living your own #BLESSED life.  Experience God's blessings by aligning your life with His will and living life His way.

Act

If you struggle with jealousy, intentionally thank God for the blessings in your life and celebrate his blessings in the lives of others. Gratitude is a great way to change your attitude!

Pray

Father God, thank you for your good and perfect will.  Give me the courage and discernment to choose Your will in every decision, even when it's hard.  Take away any jealousy in me and help me to celebrate Your blessings in the lives of others.   In Jesus' name, Amen.