What Does The Bible Say About Jealousy And Insecurity? (25 Bible Verses)

Jealousy and insecurity can damage our confidence and peace. Today, we’ll see what God’s Word says about overcoming these struggles and finding security in Him.

Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Envy And Jealousy

What Does The Bible Say About Jealousy And Insecurity

Proverbs 14:30

“A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.”

This verse reminds us of the destructive nature of jealousy. Jealousy not only eats away at our inner being but also affects our physical well-being. It emphasizes the importance of cultivating a heart at peace, free from envy and jealousy, in order to lead a fulfilling life.

Galatians 5:19-21

“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”

This verse lists jealousy as one of the acts of the flesh, highlighting its sinful nature. Jealousy is equated with other destructive behaviors and is a warning against indulging in such actions. It serves as a reminder of the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God and rejecting the sinful desires that can lead to insecurity and jealousy.

James 3:16

“For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.”

Envy and selfish ambition breed chaos and evil. This verse cautions us about the negative consequences of allowing jealousy to take root in our hearts. It encourages us to approach relationships and situations with a selfless and humble attitude, avoiding the destructive path that jealousy leads us towards.

Proverbs 27:4

“Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy?”

This verse highlights the overwhelming power of jealousy. It emphasizes that jealousy can be more destructive and potent than even anger and fury. It reminds us of the need to guard our hearts against jealousy and address it before it consumes us and causes harm to ourselves and others.

1 Corinthians 3:3

“You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere humans?”

Jealousy is a worldly characteristic that goes against the principles of living a life centered on God. This verse admonishes believers for indulging in jealousy and quarreling, calling them back to a higher standard of behavior. It serves as a reminder to overcome jealousy and live in accordance with the Spirit rather than worldly desires.

Proverbs 23:17

“Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the Lord.”

This verse cautions against envying the lifestyle or success of those who do not follow God’s ways. It encourages believers to remain zealous for the fear of the Lord, emphasizing that true contentment and fulfillment come from walking in obedience to Him rather than being consumed by jealousy towards those who do not honor God.

Psalm 37:1

“Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong.”

This verse advises against fretting or becoming envious of those who seem to prosper despite their wrongdoing. It reminds us that God is just and will ultimately deal with evildoers. Instead of being consumed by jealousy, we are called to trust in God’s justice and focus on following His righteous path.

Proverbs 6:34

“For jealousy arouses a husband’s fury, and he will show no mercy when he takes revenge.”

This verse illustrates the destructive consequences of jealousy within a marriage. Jealousy can spark intense anger and lead to actions that are devoid of mercy or understanding. It serves as a cautionary reminder for spouses to nurture trust and security in their relationship, avoiding the poisonous effects of jealousy.

1 Peter 2:1-2

“Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation.”

This verse encourages believers to let go of jealousy, along with other negative traits, and instead, desire pure spiritual nourishment. It reminds us that as we pursue genuine spiritual growth, we should cast aside jealousy, recognizing it as a hindrance to our journey towards salvation.

Proverbs 23:17-18

“Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the Lord. There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.”

This verse encourages believers to remain steadfast in their commitment to the fear of the Lord and not be swayed by envy towards sinners. It assures us that our hope in God’s promises will be fulfilled and that living a life aligned with His principles is the path to a secure and blessed future.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

This famous passage about love serves as a reminder of its pure and selfless nature. Love does not give room for jealousy, as it seeks the well-being and happiness of others. It encourages us to cultivate love in our hearts, allowing it to guide our actions and relationships, and displacing any insecure or jealous tendencies.

Psalm 73:3

“For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.”

This verse reflects the psalmist’s struggle with envy towards the wicked who seem to prosper. It shows the human tendency to compare oneself to others and become jealous. However, as the psalm progresses, it highlights the temporary nature of the wicked’s prosperity compared to the eternal blessings of those who trust in God.

Proverbs 14:30

“A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.”

This verse reminds us of the destructive nature of jealousy. Jealousy not only eats away at our inner being but also affects our physical well-being. It emphasizes the importance of cultivating a heart at peace, free from envy and jealousy, in order to lead a fulfilling life.

Galatians 5:19-21

“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”

This verse lists jealousy as one of the acts of the flesh, highlighting its sinful nature. Jealousy is equated with other destructive behaviors and is a warning against indulging in such actions. It serves as a reminder of the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God and rejecting the sinful desires that can lead to insecurity and jealousy.

James 3:16

“For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.”

Envy and selfish ambition breed chaos and evil. This verse cautions us about the negative consequences of allowing jealousy to take root in our hearts. It encourages us to approach relationships and situations with a selfless and humble attitude, avoiding the destructive path that jealousy leads us towards.

Proverbs 27:4

“Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy?”

This verse highlights the overwhelming power of jealousy. It emphasizes that jealousy can be more destructive and potent than even anger and fury. It reminds us of the need to guard our hearts against jealousy and address it before it consumes us and causes harm to ourselves and others.

1 Corinthians 3:3

“You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere humans?”

Jealousy is a worldly characteristic that goes against the principles of living a life centered on God. This verse admonishes believers for indulging in jealousy and quarreling, calling them back to a higher standard of behavior. It serves as a reminder to overcome jealousy and live in accordance with the Spirit rather than worldly desires.

Proverbs 23:17

“Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the Lord.”

This verse cautions against envying the lifestyle or success of those who do not follow God’s ways. It encourages believers to remain zealous for the fear of the Lord, emphasizing that true contentment and fulfillment come from walking in obedience to Him rather than being consumed by jealousy towards those who do not honor God.

Psalm 37:1

“Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong.”

This verse advises against fretting or becoming envious of those who seem to prosper despite their wrongdoing. It reminds us that God is just and will ultimately deal with evildoers. Instead of being consumed by jealousy, we are called to trust in God’s justice and focus on following His righteous path.

Proverbs 6:34

“For jealousy arouses a husband’s fury, and he will show no mercy when he takes revenge.”

This verse illustrates the destructive consequences of jealousy within a marriage. Jealousy can spark intense anger and lead to actions that are devoid of mercy or understanding. It serves as a cautionary reminder for spouses to nurture trust and security in their relationship, avoiding the poisonous effects of jealousy.

1 Peter 2:1-2

“Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation.”

This verse encourages believers to let go of jealousy, along with other negative traits, and instead, desire pure spiritual nourishment. It reminds us that as we pursue genuine spiritual growth, we should cast aside jealousy, recognizing it as a hindrance to our journey towards salvation.

Proverbs 23:17-18

“Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the Lord. There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.”

This verse encourages believers to remain steadfast in their commitment to the fear of the Lord and not be swayed by envy towards sinners. It assures us that our hope in God’s promises will be fulfilled and that living a life aligned with His principles is the path to a secure and blessed future.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

This famous passage about love serves as a reminder of its pure and selfless nature. Love does not give room for jealousy, as it seeks the well-being and happiness of others. It encourages us to cultivate love in our hearts, allowing it to guide our actions and relationships, and displacing any insecure or jealous tendencies.

Psalm 73:3

“For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.”

This verse reflects the psalmist’s struggle with envy towards the wicked who seem to prosper. It shows the human tendency to compare oneself to others and become jealous. However, as the psalm progresses, it highlights the temporary nature of the wicked’s prosperity compared to the eternal blessings of those who trust in God.

Proverbs 14:30

“A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.”

This verse reminds us of the destructive nature of jealousy. Jealousy not only eats away at our inner being but also affects our physical well-being. It emphasizes the importance of cultivating a heart at peace, free from envy and jealousy, in order to lead a fulfilling life.

Galatians 5:19-21

“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”

This verse lists jealousy as one of the acts of the flesh, highlighting its sinful nature. Jealousy is equated with other destructive behaviors and is a warning against indulging in such actions. It serves as a reminder of the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God and rejecting the sinful desires that can lead to insecurity and jealousy.

James 3:16

“For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.”

Envy and selfish ambition breed chaos and evil. This verse cautions us about the negative consequences of allowing jealousy to take root in our hearts. It encourages us to approach relationships and situations with a selfless and humble attitude, avoiding the destructive path that jealousy leads us towards.

Proverbs 27:4

“Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy?”

This verse highlights the overwhelming power of jealousy. It emphasizes that jealousy can be more destructive and potent than even anger and fury. It reminds us of the need to guard our hearts against jealousy and address it before it consumes us and causes harm to ourselves and others.

1 Corinthians 3:3

“You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere humans?”

Jealousy is a worldly characteristic that goes against the principles of living a life centered on God. This verse admonishes believers for indulging in jealousy and quarreling, calling them back to a higher standard of behavior. It serves as a reminder to overcome jealousy and live in accordance with the Spirit rather than worldly desires.

Proverbs 23:17

“Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the Lord.”

This verse cautions against envying the lifestyle or success of those who do not follow God’s ways. It encourages believers to remain zealous for the fear of the Lord, emphasizing that true contentment and fulfillment come from walking in obedience to Him rather than being consumed by jealousy towards those who do not honor God.

Psalm 37:1

“Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong.”

This verse advises against fretting or becoming envious of those who seem to prosper despite their wrongdoing. It reminds us that God is just and will ultimately deal with evildoers. Instead of being consumed by jealousy, we are called to trust in God’s justice and focus on following His righteous path.

Proverbs 6:34

“For jealousy arouses a husband’s fury, and he will show no mercy when he takes revenge.”

This verse illustrates the destructive consequences of jealousy within a marriage. Jealousy can spark intense anger and lead to actions that are devoid of mercy or understanding. It serves as a cautionary reminder for spouses to nurture trust and security in their relationship, avoiding the poisonous effects of jealousy.

1 Peter 2:1-2

“Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation.”

This verse encourages believers to let go of jealousy, along with other negative traits, and instead, desire pure spiritual nourishment. It reminds us that as we pursue genuine spiritual growth, we should cast aside jealousy, recognizing it as a hindrance to our journey towards salvation.

Proverbs 23:17-18

“Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the Lord. There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.”

This verse encourages believers to remain steadfast in their commitment to the fear of the Lord and not be swayed by envy towards sinners. It assures us that our hope in God’s promises will be fulfilled and that living a life aligned with His principles is the path to a secure and blessed future.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

This famous passage about love serves as a reminder of its pure and selfless nature. Love does not give room for jealousy, as it seeks the well-being and happiness of others. It encourages us to cultivate love in our hearts, allowing it to guide our actions and relationships, and displacing any insecure or jealous tendencies.

Psalm 73:3

“For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.”

This verse reflects the psalmist’s struggle with envy towards the wicked who seem to prosper. It shows the human tendency to compare oneself to others and become jealous. However, as the psalm progresses, it highlights the temporary nature of the wicked’s prosperity compared to the eternal blessings of those who trust in God.