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When we use the word "jealous," we use it in a sense of being envious of someone who has something we do not have. This kind of jealousy is a sin and is not characteristic of a Christian; rather, it shows that we are still being controlled by our own desires. Paul says, "Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other."

The Bible tells us that we are to have the perfect kind of love that God has for us. "Love is patient, love is kind." It does not envy, nor boast, nor is it proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. The more we focus on ourselves and our own desires, the less we are able to focus on God. When we harden our hearts to the truth, we can not turn to Jesus and allow Him to heal us. But when we allow the Holy Spirit to control us, he will produce in us the fruit of our salvation, which is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.