Read Job 21:7–34
Their prosperity is not in their own hands, so I stand aloof from the counsel of the wicked. Job 21:16

The saddest thing about the wicked is the way they leave God out of their lives and still prosper (Job 21:13–15). The wicked take credit for their wealth, but Job acknowledges that everything comes from God (1:21). How, then, can Job’s three friends classify him with the wicked? Too many professed Christians admire and envy the lifestyle of the rich and famous.

In one of his books, Dr. Kenneth Chafin told about a pastor and deacon who were visiting prospects and stopped at a beautiful suburban home. The lawn looked like it was manicured, and two expensive cars sat in the driveway. The pastor and deacon could see the man of the house comfortably seated in his spacious living room, watching television. The place reeked of affluence. The deacon turned to his pastor and asked, “What kind of good news do we have for this fellow?”

I have performed many weddings and watched many young Christian couples begin their shared lives. What a joy it has been to see homes where couples resist the temptation to follow the crowd and live for material possessions. Unfortunately, some have lost their spiritual vision and succeeded in this world—without acknowledging the Lord. Alas, “they have received their reward” (Matt. 6:2, 5, 16).

Something to Ponder
How do you deal with twinges of envy for what others have?