God: "I looked for someone to take a stand for me, and stand in the gap" (Ezekiel 22:30)
When certain concepts are ascribed to God, they are thus not used figuratively but in their first and most original sense. God is not “as it were” a father; He is the Father from whom all fatherhood on earth is derived.
Envy is not a synonym for jealousy. Synonyms can be used interchangeably; envy and jealousy can’t. If you don’t believe me, try substituting the word “envious” for “jealous” in the phrase: “For I the Lord your God am a jealous God.” Jealousy is possessive and protective; it can be good or bad. God’s jealousy – His possessiveness of His people – is a good thing; it protects us from being plucked out of His hand.