“We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise” 2 Corinthians 10:12
One of the quickest ways for me to lose my joy and my focus is to compare my life with the lives of others. I’m content with my life – until I look across the fence and see what my neighbor has! I’m not just talking about physical blessings, but the niggling feeling that someone is having more success than I am. Can you relate?
In 2 Corinthians 10:12 Paul tells us that those who compare themselves to others are not wise. I’m reminded of what the risen Lord Jesus Christ told Peter as they sat by a camp fire on the shore of the Sea of Galilee. Jesus had just restored Peter to fellowship and told him what his life’s work would be.
Peter turned and, looking at another disciple, he asked. “Lord, what about him?”
Jesus answered, “What is that to you? You must follow me” (John 21:21, 22).
Like Peter, we tend to compare our lives to others. God is blessing her more than me, we think. Soon another thought follows. God isn’t fair. I’m working just as hard as she is, then why isn’t He blessing me like that?
When we compare ourselves to others, we are doubting God’s goodness. Comparisons shift our focus away from God onto our circumstances, spawning thoughts of discontent.
“Keep your eyes on me,” Jesus told Peter. “Why compare yourself with him? I have a good plan for each of you.” The same is true for us. We need to keep our eyes on Jesus and be faithful to what He has asked us to do.
When I am tempted to compare myself with others, I remind myself that God loves me! His plan is tailor-made for me. Knowing this makes it easier for me to see my own blessings. I focus on what I have, not on what I don’t have. And I trust my loving God with the rest.
Thank you, Father, that you have a beautiful plan for each of your children. I want to keep my eyes on Jesus and be faithful in doing what He has asked me to do. Amen.
by Helen Lescheid
To read more of Helen’s writings go to http://www.helenlescheid.com
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