Deal or No Deal: Envy or Gratitude?

October 5, 2008 - Rev. Rurel Ausley, Rev. Kevin Kelly

Matthew 20:1-15; Numbers 12:1-15

I. What is the definition of envy and gratitude?

II. A story about envy: Matthew 20:1-15.

III. Envy destroys.

IV. Subtle signs of envy.

V. How to build gratitude into your life.

1. Looking back over the last month, what are a couple of things for which you are most thankful? Is it hard for you to think of things that you are thankful for? Why? Are you able to think of things which you are upset about? Why?

2. Discuss the definitions of envy and gratitude. Envy: Begrudges the blessings and success of others. It asks, "Why them?" Gratitude: Recognizes and appreciates God's blessings. It asks, "Why me?" Why is there a difference in "recognizing" God’s blessings and "appreciating" God's blessings?

3. Think back on the parable we looked at about the laborers in Matthew 20:1-15. What is your natural response to this Scripture? How does it compare to what the Scripture is trying to teach? Can you identify a time or situation in your life where you forgot God's faithfulness to you and begrudged his goodness to someone else?

4. Do you think, for most people, it is easier to be thankful for something good that happens or something that was potentially bad that didn't happen? What types of things or experiences do you tend to recognize, appreciate and be most thankful for?

5. The consequences of envy are terrible. How does envy destroy our health? (Proverbs 14:30) How does it destroy our relationships? (James 3:16; 4:12) And worst of all, how does it destroy our walk with God? (Gal. 5:19-21; 1 Thess. 5:18; Heb. 12:26; Rom. 1:21-32)
6. Take a moment and discuss each one of the subtle signs of envy that was mentioned in the message: 1) score keeping; 2) the half empty syndrome; 3) the "got to have its"; 4) a critical spirit; 5) a poor loser.

7. In what ways can you build gratitude into the fabric of your life?