The word jealousy is used of God.  He alone is God and there is none other Who is to be worshiped or regarded as God.  God’s jealousy has to do with the holiness of His character and Person.

  The jealously of God is not the same as people’s jealousy.  People’s jealousy is self-serving bitterness and envy, possessive and apprehensive.  This devotional is dealing with human jealousy.

Dictionary: Jealous – 1. Fearful or wary of being supplanted; apprehensive of loss of position or affection.  2. Resentful or bitter in rivalry; envious.
3. Possessively watchful; vigilant

Jealousy says things like John said to Jesus.  It seems another man was “casting out demons” in the name of Jesus.  John said “We tried to prevent him because he does not follow along with us.”  These disciples were being possessively watchful…vigilant, perhaps so Jesus would not be usurped?
(Luke 9:49)

Now ladies and gentlemen, Jesus is perfectly capable of defending Himself.  He is perfectly able to discipline those who are “out of line” with His words.  In fact, Jesus is perfect!  His actions, His words, His motives are perfectly pure.  And He is trustworthy to protect His words!

Be aware of jealousy rearing its sinful, ugly head!

  How did Jesus defuse John’s incensed pride and vigilance?
(NASB) Luke 9:50 “But Jesus said to him, ‘Do not hinder him; for he who is not against you is for you.’”

Anyone who is “for” Christ Jesus will be a believer and obeying His words of truth…whether “I think so or not” makes no difference to Him.
Christ stated: (NASB) John 14:6 “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.”

How do you react toward “outsiders” whose actions are pleasing to God but may differ from your perception?  John was jealous.  John told Jesus.  John was given sound, godly advice from Jesus.

Perhaps Jesus is saying the same thing to you:
(NASB) Luke 9:50 “But Jesus said to him, ‘Do not hinder him; for he who is not against you is for you.’”