Be Happy for Others

Celebrate the wins of others—because joy multiplies when shared.

“Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.”
(Galatians 5:26)

Jealousy is a shadow that dims relationships. It divides families, strains friendships, and rarely leaves anything good in its wake.

We see it constantly in the world of sports: one teammate gets more praise, one team garners more headlines—and suddenly, there's tension. Jealousy often leads us to shift blame outward instead of looking inward. We ask, “Why not me?” instead of “How can I grow?” The energy spent stewing over someone else’s spotlight could be invested in building our own skill—and building others up along the way.

Jealousy is fueled by selfishness, insecurity, fear, resentment, and anger. Not one of these reflects the fruit of the Spirit.

What Maturity Looks Like

Instead, spiritual maturity blooms through:

• Generosity – Giving freely and joyfully, placing others’ needs first

• Confidence – Living rooted in identity and purpose

• Faith – Walking boldly through uncertainty, trusting God's plan

• Acceptance – Letting go of bitterness and choosing peace

• Patience – Responding with grace, even when it’s tough

Scripture to Refocus

The Bible offers a better way. When envy rises, we’re called to refocus our hearts:

• “A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.” – Proverbs 14:30

• “Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.” – Galatians 5:26

• “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” – Philippians 4:11

• “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” – 1 Timothy 6:6

• “Encourage one another and build each other up.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Choose Celebration Over Comparison

God created us for community, not competition. True community flourishes not just in crisis, but in the everyday—when we choose to celebrate one another’s victories, big and small.

So this week, choose to cheer loudest for others. Show up in someone else’s win. Let your heart be filled with joy for others and gratitude for your own path.

Have a GREAT (and GRATEFUL, jealousy-free) week.

Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Dooley