King Saul was eaten up with envy toward David because God’s favor upon the young warrior eclipsed the king’s reputation. Saul was thereby determined to eliminate David. His consuming animosity even affected his relationship with his own son, Jonathan. How tragic.

Leaders can do despicable things when they are driven by jealousy. David relied upon God to determine his reputation whereas Saul was a self-promoter and self-preserver.

Paul said, concerning his reputation and authority, “I die daily.” He gloried ONLY in the Lord and His sacrificial death.

PRAYER: Lord, deliver us from the devastating jealousy that tries to consume us. Work Your humility in us. Protect and favor us to do Your will.

READ: 1 Sam. 18-20