The Deceptive Danger Within: The Fake, Disloyal, Envious, and Jealous Relative
Isaac Megbolugbe
January 18, 2025
Introduction
The Holy Scriptures warn us about the devastating impact of deceitful and treacherous individuals, especially those within our own families. I have personally experienced the pain and damage inflicted by fake, disloyal, envious, and jealous relatives. Yet, God’s faithfulness has lifted me above my circumstances, granting me contentment and sufficiency in Him.
The Fake Relative (Proverbs 26:24-26)
“A deceitful tongue craves admiration, but the kiss of an enemy is treacherous.” (Proverbs 26:24, NLT)
I have experienced the sting of fake relatives who hid behind a mask of affection but sought to harm me. Their deceitful words and actions left deep scars.
The Disloyal Relative (Psalm 41:9)
“Even my own friend, whom I trusted, he who ate my bread, has lifted his heel against me.” (Psalm 41:9, ESV)
I have been betrayed by disloyal relatives who turned against me, just like Judas betrayed Jesus. Their disloyalty shook my trust in others.
The Envious Relative (Galatians 5:26)
“Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.” (Galatians 5:26, NIV)
I have faced envy from relatives who resented my success and sought to undermine it. Their envy revealed their own insecurities.
The Jealous Relative (1 Samuel 18:8-9)
“Saul eyed David with suspicion from that day forward… Saul became afraid of David.” (1 Samuel 18:8-9, NLT)
I have encountered jealous relatives who plotted against me, driven by their own fears and insecurities.
Personal Testimony
Despite the damage inflicted by these relatives, God’s faithfulness has been my rock. He has elevated my life above my circumstances, granting me contentment and sufficiency in Him. I have learned to trust in His goodness and sovereignty, even in the face of betrayal and hurt.
Conclusion
The Holy Scriptures caution us about the destructive power of fake, disloyal, envious, and jealous relatives. My personal experience testifies to the damage they can cause. However, God’s faithfulness and love can lift us above our circumstances, granting us peace and contentment. May we find solace in His word and His presence.
References:
Proverbs 26:24-26 (NLT)
Psalm 41:9 (ESV)
Galatians 5:26 (NIV)
1 Samuel 18:8-9 (NLT)
Thank God for turning the wisdom of the enemy to foolishness