Jealousy is real, not only in relationships but also in ministry. Joshua had been serving alongside Moses as an apprentice. Moses was grooming Joshua to lead God's people, but he was still young and sometimes a bit clueless.
Joshua showed immaturity in wanting his mentor to be the only one who offered spiritual leadership. He complained that two elders, who had not been with the others, were prophesying. Jealous that God had placed his gifts on some others, Joshua wanted Moses to make them stop prophesying.
Scripture says Moses helps Joshua to see the bigger picture. He points Joshua away from self-interest and back to God. God is the giver of gifts - not us. It is not our place to question the giver or even to desire the gifts of others, but rather to use our gifts in His service.
Jealousy limits our focus to ourselves and our desires. Moses instead mentored Joshua to see the wider view of all God's blessings. We should rejoice that God empowers others to work in his kingdom.
Today, If you are pursuing faith for your own benefit, your heart is in the wrong place. Celebrate the gifts God has given you, and do not be jealous of the gifting and calling that God has placed on others. May our desire be that everyone experiences God's Spirit at work in their lives!
Moses replied, "Are you jealous for my sake? I wish that all the LORD's people were prophets and that the LORD would put his Spirit on them!" (Numbers 11:29).
Let's Pray
Yahweh, please help me to be grateful for the gifts you have given me and others. Father, may I never be jealous of another's gifts, but celebrate your equipping in all our lives. In Jesus' name, Amen.