The answer is: Confusion and every evil work

James 3:16 - Envy and strife lead to chaos in both personal lives and communities, as detailed by James. This ties back to Proverbs 14:30, which warns that a peaceful heart brings life, while jealousy causes decay. The early Church faced these issues, emphasizing the importance of unity in Christ.

In the Epistle of James, we see a clear Christian call for introspection, especially regarding our feelings of envy and strife. These sentiments not only cloud our hearts but can wreak havoc within our connections to others, both personally and collectively. It's like throwing a small stone into a still pond; the ripples spread far and wide, causing confusion and strife.

The beautiful thread connecting James 3:16 and Proverbs 14:30 illustrates timeless wisdom—seeking peace fosters life, while jealousy leads to chaos and decay. This linkage reflects a theme echoed throughout the Scriptures, highlighting the communal aspect of individual behaviors. Just think about the early Church's challenges, grappling with unity amid diversity; their struggles mirrored human experiences even today.

As a fun fact, the word "envy" finds its roots in Latin “invidere,” which means to look upon with malice. When we let envy take root, it not only distorts our view of others but can morph into harmful actions, creating a shutdown of community and love.

Moreover, every major philosopher and ethical teacher has repeatedly returned to the same lesson—that camaraderie and goodwill are fundamental components of a thriving society. For instance, Socrates valued self-examination for a balanced spirit, a sentiment mirrored most beautifully in these Biblical verses. Thus, both the Spiritual and secular wisdom teach us to nurture a spirit free from envy and strife, paving the way for harmony!