Comparison is a Killer
comparison |kəmˈparɪs(ə)n| noun 1 a consideration or estimate of the similarities or dissimilarities between two things or people: Comparison stole her joy.
With the growing world of technology, social media apps, and the ability to see into the personal lives of anyone willing to share, it can be easy to fall into the trap of comparison.
We all carry devices in the palms of our hands that allow us to follow friends and strangers who intrigue our interest and inspire us through fashion, food, design, shopping, travel, and more. If we aren't careful, we can go from being inspired by one another, to measuring our own success in life by the highlight reel of someone else's modified online content.
Comparison is running rampant these days, and if we're honest, we've all fallen into the comparison trap far more often than we would like to admit. But today, I want to encourage us to search out our own unique purpose, calling, and destiny so that we can avoid the snares that comparison can have in our lives!
"If you are wise, and understand God's ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom. But if you are bitterly jealous and there is selfish ambition in your heart, don't cover up the truth with boasting and lying. For jealousy and selfishness are not God's kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and demonic. For wherever there is JEALOUSY and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and evil of every kind. BUT the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness." James 3:13-18
I love this section of James because it shows us that the root of comparison is jealousy. When we become jealous of one another instead of being truly happy for someone else when they succeed–the Bible actually calls that kind of behavior “earthly, unspiritual and demonic.” Yikes!
But the opposite of comparison and jealousy is called, contentment. True contentment, or a state of happiness and satisfaction, is rooted in a genuine trust and faith in God. Having a close relationship with God and His Word will give us wisdom for life. James goes on to tell us that this kind of wisdom is “pure, loving, gentle and willing to yield to others.” Being willing to yield to others means that we put their needs above our own. We are happy when they succeed–not when they fail. God has called us to be truly wise in this way, choosing to live a life of wisdom and genuine love for one another!
Bob Goff says, "We won't be distracted by comparison if we are captivated by purpose." And I couldn’t agree more. When we are so filled with passion for our own destiny and purpose, we don't have the time (or care) to allow comparison to get between us and our calling.
If Instagram or other forms of social media cause you to compare your life with others in a negative way, then delete the apps from your phone for a little while, and spend some quality time in God's Word and presence.
"Trust the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in ALL your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6
Remember, the condition of your heart is the most important thing that only you have control over. In Proverbs 4:23, the Bible encourages us to "guard your heart above all else" because it determines the course of your life. Guard your heart today, from jealousy, bitterness, and anger. Instead, let love, peace, and joy abound through your willingness to submit to God's wisdom!
I'm so excited about the good things that God has planned for you and your life! Let us be a sisterhood that stands for one another, cheering one another on in all that we do. Let us be a unified, body of Christ--encouraging and loving one another, always.
My prayer for you today:
Dear Father, please renew my heart, my mind, and spirit today. I have struggled with the trap of comparison and jealousy, and I don't want to compare my life with the lives of others anymore. I love the life that you gave specifically to me. I love that you gave me distinct gifts and talents that will help me to fulfill my calling, purpose, and destiny on the earth. Let me live a life that brings you glory. Start with me and my heart. Search me and know me. Point out anything within me that does not honor you. Change my heart toward those I am jealous of, and help me to pray blessing over them and their future. Free me of all jealousy, comparison, and selfishness as you teach me to love the way You do. Amen!
XO-
Sabrina
PS: If you're struggling with jealousy and comparison, I encourage you to pick up the book, The Comparison Trap by Sandra Stanley. This 28-day devotional will help you to choose contentment over comparison and live a life of complete joy, passion, and purpose!