Envy (together with all forms of hate) not only causes emotional stress, but also has serious consequences for physical health. It has only been in recent decades that medical science has taken note of the connection between our inner life and our bodily illnesses. Bitterness, for example, is known to cause or to intensify high blood pressure. Intense anger can lead to a heart attack or stroke. David knew of the bodily effects of unconfessed sin: “When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long” (Psalm 32:3). Indeed, as God has been teaching us for 2,500 years, envy rots the bones!
But a heart at peace gives life to the body. This “peace” signifies a meek, softhearted attitude. It is part of the fruit of the Spirit. The Spirit helps us to react differently to the various factors that could make us angry or stressed. After all, it is not the actions of others, but rather our reactions to these, that can damage our health. The meek heart loves the neighbour, even if this neighbour is an enemy. There is no better bodily cure for us than the command to “love your neighbour as yourself.”
Meekness keeps us from anger and self-centredness that can cause stomach problems, gallstones, and high blood pressure. Meekness lets us see the limited nature of our task and responsibility, thereby protecting us against many problems of the nervous system. Indeed, even in this life Jesus’ words ring true: “Blessed are the meek” (Matthew 5:5).
30 A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot.