Jealousy is bad. Paul tells us so in Galatians 5. So why do we constantly read about God’s “good” jealousy in passages like today’s reading?

See, when we think of jealousy, it’s easy to imagine something negative—a destructive emotion rooted in envy or insecurity. Yet, when we read about God’s jealousy in Scripture, it is framed as pure, righteous, and entirely different from the jealousy that you and I experience.

God’s jealousy is not about envy. He does not covet something that isn’t rightfully His. Rather, His jealousy is about protecting the covenant relationship He has with us. Just as a spouse has the right to expect exclusive devotion and affection, God, who entered into a covenant with His people, rightfully demands our wholehearted love and loyalty.

This divine jealousy is not rooted in insecurity or a desire to control, but in the understanding that turning away from God leads to our own destruction. Just as a spouse would feel righteous jealousy if their partner’s affections were being shared with another, God’s jealousy arises when our hearts are divided and we pursue other “lovers”—whether that be idols, worldly desires, or anything that takes His rightful place in our lives.

On the other hand, human jealousy, when rooted in envy, is about desiring what belongs to someone else, whether it be their possessions, achievements, or relationships. This kind of jealousy is destructive and rooted in selfishness, leading to bitterness and resentment. In contrast, God’s jealousy is protective and stems from His love for us, knowing that only in Him can we find true fulfillment and peace.

Understanding the difference between these forms of jealousy helps us see why God’s jealousy is not only justified but is also an expression of His deep love for us. Just as we would be rightly jealous for the exclusive affection of our spouse, God’s jealousy is a reflection of His covenantal commitment to us, desiring our full and undivided devotion.