I tried to guard my heart, but it wasn’t working. As I watched my friends retire, one by one, I felt envious. I struggled not to grumble about how unfair it was that I had to work while they joined daytime book clubs, took up new hobbies, spent more time with their grandkids and traveled with their husbands.

Sure, they worked hard and are deserving of rest. But what about me? Aren’t I deserving of rest too? Is it really God’s plan for me to be working until I die? Insert dramatic sigh here.

It hurt my heart to doubt God’s provision for me. Struggling to determine if this was a contentment issue, a trust issue or both, I knew in my heart that God had always been faithful to me. Would this doubt rob me of the comfort of God’s dependability, all because I was seeking my own interests or comparing myself to others?

Recently, as I thought more about this frustration, I was reminded of how gracious God has been to me throughout the course of my life. Countless times he has kept me from things I thought I needed. And countless times he has actually blessed me with something completely different. In the instance of my delayed retirement, he provided an opportunity for me to stay home with my kids when they were little, as I started out with part-time work before transitioning to full-time work once they grew older.

This provision, and so many others, have built my faith, just as the old testament stories of David have. When I struggle to trust in the Lord, the Holy Spirit reminds me of his faithfulness.

If you envy someone else’s life today, I encourage you to read these six Bible verses as reminders of God’s faithfulness, peace and wisdom:

2 Samuel 7:28 (GNTD)

“And now, Sovereign Lord, you are God; you always keep your promises, and you have made this wonderful promise to me.”

Psalm 18:30 (GNTD)

“This God—how perfect are his deeds! How dependable his words! He is like a shield for all who seek his protection.”

Proverbs 3:5-6 (GNTD)

Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Never rely on what you think you know. Remember the Lord in everything you do, and he will show you the right way.

Jeremiah 29:11 (GNTD)

I alone know the plans I have for you, plans to bring you prosperity and not disaster, plans to bring about the future you hope for.

Isaiah 26:3 (GNTD)

You, Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm and put their trust in you.

Philippians 1:6 (GNTD)

And so I am sure that God, who began this good work in you, will carry it on until it is finished on the Day of Christ Jesus.