Why Envy Does No Good

Why Envy Does No Good
By Pastor Alexander Redd

In Matthew 20:9-10, Jesus shares a powerful parable about two groups of workers. He shows that when those hired at the last hour received a dollar, the first group expected more and later complained to the master who hired them.

This parable reflects our daily experiences, teaching us that envy often stems from comparing ourselves to others, as seen in the vineyard workers' story.

"The ones who were hired last came up and were given a dollar. When those hired first saw that, they assumed they would get far more." (Matthew 20:9-10).

They began to compare: "Look at their reward. We must deserve more."
The Bible warns against this comparison for good reason: You are unique. God made you special, and there is no one else like you. Your uniqueness is evidence of your worth in God's design. Comparing yourself to others can lead to pride and envy.

When we compare, we risk feelings of superiority or envy based on others' achievements. Both pride and envy can lead us down paths of discontent and unhappiness.

Moreover, envy often arises from knowing others only on the surface level. We may see only their strengths and successes from a distance, but as we draw closer to them, we learn about their struggles and challenges.

Everyone carries hidden pain, something we often don't see from far away. Genuine understanding comes through meaningful interactions with people, particularly in small groups, making connections, empathy, and shared experience.

By drawing closer to others, we learn to appreciate them for who they are and to pray for them rather than feeling envy or thinking we are better than them. This spirit of community and togetherness nurtures our belonging and encourages us to move beyond comparisons.