In human relationships, a destructive form of jealousy can arise, driven by selfishness and a desire for control. As James 3:16 notes, where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, disorder and evil practices follow. The Bible contrasts this with a righteous jealousy, as seen in Proverbs 27:4, which warns against its dangers. In 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 and 1 Corinthians 3:3, Paul teaches that love is not jealous, while Galatians 5:19-21 lists jealousy as a work of the flesh, opposing the fruit of the Spirit. The Bible encourages believers to cultivate a spirit of love and trust.
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For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no account of wrongs.
for you are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and dissension among you, are you not worldly? Are you not walking in the way of man?
The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; idolatry and sorcery; hatred, discord, jealousy, and rage; rivalries, divisions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his manservant or maidservant, or his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.”
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.
For jealousy enrages a husband, and he will show no mercy in the day of vengeance.
But if you harbor bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast in it or deny the truth. Such wisdom does not come from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice.