When You Feel Left Out or Jealous

Hey, Carpool Crew! It's day sixteen of Proverbs for Your School Life. And today we're talking about that moment at the gym door... the team list is up, your friend's name is on it, and yours isn't. I'm Pastor Justin. Listen to this from Proverbs 14:30. "A tranquil heart is life to the body, but jealousy is rottenness to the bones." Rottenness in your bones. Solomon isn't being polite about this one. Jealousy never takes anything from the other kid. It only eats you. Jesus told a story about an older brother who stood outside the party, arms crossed, mad that his little brother got the welcome. Jesus knows the jealous twist. If Jesus were standing next to you at that gym door, He would say, "I know it stings. I saw you practice all summer. Your name not being on that list doesn't change one thing about who you are to Me. Now go find your friend. He needs somebody glad for him, and you're strong enough to be that kid." Your best friend runs over, face glowing, backpack bouncing. And while your stomach twists, your mouth has a choice to make. You stick your hand up for the high five and say, "Good for you. For real." The for-real part costs something. That's exactly what makes it real. The twist in your stomach might not let go right away, and that's okay. You said the true thing out loud, and that's where a peaceful heart starts. So today, here's the one thing you could try. When the jealous twist shows up, say a real good-for-you to that person, out loud, to their face. Borrow it word for word: "Good for you. For real." You don't have to feel it all the way to say it. Sometimes the feeling follows the words. Hey, let's go back to that one thing I wanted you to remember for the ride. Say good for you, and mean it. Remember, no matter where you are or how you're listening, God loves you. And parents, if you want more encouragement like this throughout the week, come follow us on Instagram. We post simple reminders, clips, and content you can share with your kids anytime. Hey, before you go, let's answer this question together. When's the last time you felt that jealous twist, and who could use a real good-for-you from you tomorrow? I'll see you tomorrow on Carpooling with Jesus.