Our human nature sure gets in the way sometimes, doesn’t it? Put a plate of frosted cookies with various amounts of sprinkles in the middle of a bunch of preschoolers and watch what happens. The “sprinkliest” cookies are going to get grabbed up first. We all want the best, and when someone else gets it, we fight feelings of jealousy. We can put on a cheerful face and say, “Oh, what a blessing for so-and-so; look at all the sprinkles she gets to enjoy.” But much of the time we’re inwardly grousing, “C’mon, God, where are MY sprinkles?” Feelings are feelings. We’re gonna have’em. But we also need to own them. That’s part of wisdom—recognizing when what’s going on under our skin isn’t growing us in grace.

One of the best things about God is that He does not leave us lacking. He will develop a true heart of compassion and joy for others within us if we ask. Ephesians 6:13-15 advises, “…take up the full armor of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand. Stand, therefore, with truth like a belt around your waist, righteousness like armor on your chest, and your feet sandaled with readiness for the gospel of peace.” Thus suited, we can take hold of those non-helpful emotions and instead reflect Him.