11 October Numbers 5

Jealousy

Numbers 5:14-15 (AMP) “and if a spirit (sense, attitude) of jealousy comes over him and he is jealous and angry at his wife who has defiled herself—or if a spirit of jealousy comes over him and he is jealous of his wife when she has not defiled herself— then the man shall bring his wife to the priest, and he shall bring as an offering for her, a tenth of an ephah of barley meal; he shall not pour oil on it nor put frankincense on it [the symbols of favour and joy], because it is a grain offering of jealousy, a memorial grain offering, a reminder of [the consequences of] wickedness”.

The verse discusses jealousy, a normal part of being human, but it can become harmful if not handled well. Jealousy can make people suspicious and lead to mistrust. In severe cases, it can even cause unfair accusations and mistreatment of others. In marriage, jealousy can create tension and break the trust between partners.

At its core, jealousy is like making something else more important than God. We're looking for happiness in something other than Him and saying He’s not enough. Because of this, the right thing to do is to repent—turn away from the harmful feeling of jealousy and go to God’s grace for help. The lie that jealousy tells us is, 'If only things were different, I’d be happy.' But the opposite happens. Jealousy only makes us feel more unhappy and empty."

This version in the New Testament keeps the message clear and easier to understand. James 3:14-18 (AMP) “But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not be arrogant, and [as a result] be in defiance of the truth. This [superficial] wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly (secular), natural (unspiritual), even demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder [unrest, rebellion] and every evil thing and morally degrading practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure [morally and spiritually undefiled], then peace-loving [courteous, considerate], gentle, reasonable [and willing to listen], full of compassion and good fruits. It is unwavering, without [self-righteous] hypocrisy [and self-serving guile]. And the seed whose fruit is righteousness (spiritual maturity) is sown in peace by those who make peace [by actively encouraging goodwill between individuals]”. Furthermore the danger of wrath, together with jealousy, is exemplified by Proverbs 27:4 (AMP) “Wrath is cruel and anger is an overwhelming flood, But who is able to endure and stand before [the sin of] jealousy?”.

The Bible clearly shows the destructive nature of jealousy in both the Old and New Testaments. Numbers 5 shows how jealousy can poison relationships, leading to suspicion and accusations even when no wrongdoing exists. It reminds us that jealousy can damage trust and create deep divides if left unchecked.

James 3 reinforces this by describing jealousy as something that brings disorder and evil practices, highlighting the stark contrast between earthly jealousy and heavenly wisdom, which brings peace, compassion, and righteousness. Proverbs 27:4 further emphasises the power of jealousy, stating that it is more difficult to withstand than anger or wrath.

Ultimately, jealousy comes from placing our desires above God and others. The only proper solution is to avoid it and seek God’s grace and wisdom. Doing so can restore peace in our hearts and relationships and sow seeds of righteousness, leading to deeper spiritual maturity and harmony.