Dear Friend,

Most of us know people who continually crave something they don’t have or constantly fear losing what they do have. These people often struggle with envy and jealousy—two distinctly different emotions yet both can be equally destructive.

If you’re thinking: This isn’t my problem, believe me, I understand! But before you come to this conclusion, let me share an experience from my past when envy unexpectedly reared its ugly head!

When I was 24, I was invited to sing for a charity event at a local country club. Another singer—my mother’s friend—would also be performing. This attractive dramatic soprano, a popular, well-traveled soloist, had earned the reputation of always being well-received by audiences.

I appeared onstage first, then came Martha. At the conclusion of her powerful performance, she received a well-deserved round of applause. Immediately, I found myself wondering, Hmm, how long did her applause last? This initial thought shocked me: June, what are you doing—trying to measure her applause to yours? Why are you comparing yourself to Martha? (I had never had these thoughts before.)

Following the speaker’s message about the charity, Martha and I each had another opportunity to sing. I prepared myself by praying, Lord, I pray that my music will draw people into a deeper dependence on You.

After my final song, I felt pleased with my heart message communicated through the music. Then as I walked back to my seat, I suddenly became acutely aware of the applause . . . no, the length of the applause . . . for me. Instantly I felt disgusted. June, don’t do this. Stop it! Stop it! I was stunned and even saddened at my own desire to be as well-received as this gifted, seasoned soloist. I very much wanted to be content just to do my best.

How interesting, at that moment, it didn’t matter that I had a university degree in music (as was also true of Martha). It didn’t matter that a year before I had sung on NBC’s Today show, or that I’d done a USO Tour to Vietnam, or had been guest soloist for the Billy Graham crusades. Obviously, accomplishments and acclaim are not protectors guarding us against the potential emotion of envy.

Regardless of our achievements, envy is the breeding ground for discontentment. However, if we want spiritual growth in our lives, the Bible says, “Godliness with contentment is great gain”(1 Timothy 6:6).

Because of that single experience, I’ve been keenly aware of my own potential to be envious. I’m sure envy has crept into my life since then. Yet, to be honest, I am afraid of it and don’t want any part of it! Instead, I want to trust God with whatever He has given me to do, and do it to the best of my ability—without comparing myself to someone else. I know my life isn’t based on what I do or what I accomplish. And God certainly doesn’t determine my value, or yours, by comparing us to someone else.

We all must be on guard against the “evil eye” of envy. But how? Let me share one suggestion.

In 1986, Hope For ...