The phrase “love does not envy,” found in 1 Corinthians 13:4, offers profound insight into the nature of true love from a Christian perspective. This statement is part of the Apostle Paul’s eloquent description of love’s qualities in his letter to the Corinthians, where he outlines what love is and is not.
To understand “love does not envy,” it is essential to consider the destructive nature of envy. Envy is a feeling of discontent or covetousness with regard to someone’s advantages, possessions, or achievements. It is inherently selfish and contrary to the selflessness of love. In contrast, love is generous and rejoices in the wellbeing and success of others.
Several scripture cross-references help in exploring this concept further:
James 3:16: “For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.” This verse underlines the negative consequences of envy, which is antithetical to the order and goodness associated with love.
Proverbs 14:30: “A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.” This proverb contrasts the tranquility that comes from a contented, loving heart with the destructive nature of envy.
Galatians 5:26: “Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.” In this verse, Paul warns against behaviors that are opposite to the fruits of the Spirit, including envy. Love, as a fruit of the Spirit, is incompatible with envy.
Romans 12:15: “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” This verse encourages empathy and sharing in the emotions of others, whether they are positive or negative. This empathetic sharing is a characteristic of love that is directly opposed to envy.
Philippians 2:3: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” This teaching by Paul underscores the humility inherent in love, which is contrary to the self-centeredness of envy.
In summary, when Paul writes that “love does not envy” in 1 Corinthians 13:4, he is contrasting love’s selfless, generous nature with the harmful, selfish nature of envy.
True love, according to Christian teaching, is marked by a genuine happiness for others’ successes and well-being, without feeling threatened or diminished by them.
It is about elevating others and finding joy in their joy, rather than being consumed by a desire to have what they have. This approach fosters community, unity, and peace, reflecting the heart of Christian love and values.