Jealousies
The Greek word ZELOS used in Galatians 5:20 and translated “jealousies” in the New King James Version is used in a positive and negative sense.
Clearly, as a “work of the flesh” Paul intended for us to see the negative side of jealousy. In other passages the word is translated “envy” and “emulations” (see Romans 13:13; 2 Corinthians 12:20).
Thayer defines this word, in addition to “jealousy,” as “an envious and contentious rivalry.” This may help us to better understand the meaning of the word and its danger in our lives.
Have you ever not liked someone because you saw them as smarter, prettier, wealthier, holier, better favored or more richly blessed? Have you caught yourself competing with them or feeling bitter toward them? Jealousy can be a subtle danger in all of our relationships. It destroys peace for the sake of pride. Is it worth an eternity in hell?
March 2007