What is implied when God declared, “I am a jealous God?” “

Jealousy or envy is a man’s killer. We see nations rising over nations, war on war, and power-seeking power. All because there is a system of jealousy need to be controlled and maintained. But I am not writing this post for man’s jealousy, as you heard enough during your days of life – enough indeed not even interested to mention. I know, some of us may see the type of envious among your friends- your success, your every step of achievement makes another human envy! This is a reality and part of human nature to want, to desire what other human has. There is a good quote that says: “Few men have the natural strength to honour a friend’s success without envy.” I just want you to draw a line now. Because I am going to talk about “a jealous God”, this is completely 360 degree different from the human definition of jealousy.

Dictionary. com defines as “intolerant of unfaithfulness or rivalry: The Lord is a jealous God.” there are seven times the Bible mention “He is a jealous God”, there are many commentaries about this. But no fear! Even God’s jealousy is perfect and well for us. If he is jealous, it means we need to re-think and ask ourselves “am I going the right path?” “is there any un-holiness in me?” “am I need to repent?”. Instead of lifting and praising His Name, we are turning to humans and idols of this broken world, which makes God jealous. Our hearts longing for a genuine relationship and our souls are thirsty for fulfillment, and God knows how to satisfy all our needs, and He knows it well. We are so worldly and forget about the heaven, he can help us and fill our empty hearts with joy.

Seven Bible verses directly said the Lord is a jealous God.

Exodus 20:5 NIV

You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me,

Exodus 34:14 NIV

Do not worship any other god, for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God.

Deuteronomy 4:24 NIV

For the Lord your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God.

Deuteronomy 5:9 NIV

You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me,

Deuteronomy 6:15 NIV

for the Lord your God, who is among you, is a jealous God and his anger will burn against you, and he will destroy you from the face of the land.

Joshua 24:19 NIV

Joshua said to the people, “You are not able to serve the Lord. He is a holy God; he is a jealous God. He will not forgive your rebellion and your sins.

Nahum 1:2 NIV

The Lord is a jealous and avenging God; the Lord takes vengeance and is filled with wrath. The Lord takes vengeance on his foes and vents his wrath against his enemies.

It seems there are many things that involve make the LORD that way. First, God’s nature is holy and light, His glory is as bright as day, lightening all hearts – He can not see us to be unfaithful. He made us as his own image; He does not want evil for us – He is a good, good father. His anger makes us be aware of his presence. His resentment makes us find our way and identity., that is who we really are. We are belong to almighty Lord, the King of Kings, who has a noble purpose and plan for each person. Worshiping other gods, through any means, makes the Lord of heavens and earth envy. He is the true deity; so devoted to keep us close, never letting us go far away.

When God says “I am a jealous God “ means you are mine. And we are truly His. His not pleased to destroy us but restoring. His compassion and love are so much that we can not describe with a human tongue and brain. Go about your life and know there is a God who cares for you. Every detail of your life is important to Him. It is never late for me and you to start fresh with God.

Your friend

Dariush Youkhaneh

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