Romans 13:13, Not in Strife and Envying

Romans 13:13 Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.

The word “strife” speaks of contention and quarrels and “envy” speaks of a discontented and resentful spirit aroused by someone’s quality and possessions. The believer is to be contented with his lot in life trusting his all-wise and all-powerful to bestow what is best for him. These are sins of the flesh.

In Galatians 5:19-21, the Apostle Paul speaks of those sins that disqualify one from entering the kingdom of God. Strife and envying are included. These are sins of the heart that must be repented of.

Due to envy, the brothers of the biblical character Joseph conspired and sold him as slaves to Egypt. They lied to their father that their brother was killed by a wild beast. The bible describes the bitter hatred in the hearts the sons of Jacob. God worked in the later events to cause the brothers of Joseph to repent of their evil ways.

The believer is to walk honestly not in strife and envying. Amen.