4. Treat these sins as "bad habits" that need to be broken. Begin to practice the "put off—put on" principle (see the chapter on "Bad Habits"). This will be of great help. He or she should start with one aspect of the problem, focusing on it until it is under control, and then tackle successively other aspects until further progress is noted. It is often helpful to enlist one's spouse or a Christian friend to help monitor progress. Praying with this person on specific issues is also helpful.
5. Recommend getting involved in some form of Christian service through a Bible-teaching church. This could lead to more objective and constructive thinking which will aid in bringing his or her attitudes under control.
6. Encourage developing a thankful attitude toward life and toward the people who cross his or her path. Substituting praise for criticism is a good practice that provides encouraging results.
7. Pray with him or her personally for victory and a newfound joy in the Christian life.
Scripture
"A sound heart is life to the body, but envy is rottenness to the bones" (Proverbs 14:30).
"Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory" (Colossians 3:1–4, NIV).
"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching" (Hebrews 10:24–25, NIV).
"Let your conduct be without covetousness, and be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you'" (Hebrews 13:5).
Other suggested Scriptures:
Proverbs 27:4 1 Corinthians 3:3