SUNDAY SERVICE $YzY A HEART AT PEACE Proverbs 14:30 “A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.” It’s happened to all of us at some point in our lives. Someone else gets the promotion, the breakthrough, the marriage, the platform, the peace we crave. Their grass looks greener because our eyes are fixed on it. Envy doesn’t always come suddenly. It doesn’t destroy overnight; it rots quietly from the inside out. Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, saw this clearly. A tranquil heart is medicine; life-giving, strength-renewing, joy-preserving. But jealousy? It eats the bones. It drains color from your days, shortens your temper, clouds your worship, and steals your sleep. You can be wealthy, healthy, and still spiritually sick because envy has taken root. The early church battled the same poison. James warned that bitter envy and selfish ambition lead to disorder and every evil practice (James 3:16). Paul listed envy among the works of the flesh that keep people from inheriting the kingdom (Galatians 5:19-21). Where envy lives, peace cannot. Yet the gospel offers a better way. Jesus told us to store treasures in heaven where moth and rust do not destroy (Matthew 6:19-21). When our hearts are anchored there, the successes of others no longer threaten us. We can genuinely rejoice with those who rejoice. Not measure our cup against another brother’s. The peace of God, which surpasses understanding, guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7). This is not denial of pain or pretending everything is fine. It is choosing to bring every ache, every “why them and not me,” to the feet of Jesus. It is refusing to let bitterness become our identity. A heart at peace is not passive, it is powerful. It gives life to your body, clarity to your mind, and credibility to your witness. Today’s test is simple: Look around. Who has what you want? Instead of letting that steal your joy, let it drive you deeper into prayer and trust. Repent of envy. Ask the Holy Spirit to replace it with contentment and love. The same God who provides for them knows exactly what you need and when you need it. Envy rots the bones. Peace gives life to the body. AMEN 4NBT