“Comparison will either make you feel inferior or superior. Neither honors God.”
Craig Groeschel
A high school reunion can become fodder in the enemy’s hands with comparison if we allow ourselves to fall into that trap. It’s easy and tempting to size ourselves up as we compare our physical looks, marriages, families, and vocations to others. Scrolling through Facebook is another area we may fall prey to comparison. But, when we compare ourselves with others, we shoot ourselves in the foot of connecting and having a relationship with them. Comparison is the thief of relational connection.
No good comes from comparison. We either compare up and become greater than others which leads to pride, superiority, arrogance, and self-exaltation, or we compare down and become less than which leads to feelings of inferiority, shame, jealousy, insecurity, and worthlessness.
Comparison is a form of judgment; judgments cause wedges in relationships. Instead of drawing near, we pull away. Judgments encourage division and dissension. Where there’s judgment, there’s rejection. Comparison isolates us, which is one reason God warns us in 1 Corinthians 10:12 to not fall into that snare. “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.”
The enemy’s desire is that we are tripped up by the trap of comparison because it prevents us from having relational connections and intimacy with one another. Comparison robs us of being known and from knowing others. Secondly, comparison keeps our true selves hidden and protected behind our false selves. Comparison kills who we really are and who God created us to be. When we’re focused on someone else’s abilities or looks and we try to become like them, then we’re not free to be who God designed us to be.
The antidote to comparison is to find satisfaction in your identity in Christ. Lay down the scale of judgment and pick up acceptance of yourself, as God created you. If you find contentment within then you will have no need to compare yourself with others. Put on an attitude of thanksgiving and you will more likely see yourself through God’s eyes. As you choose communion and connection with others, comparison will fall by the wayside.
“We won’t be distracted by comparison if we are captivated with purpose.”
Bob Goff
Relevant Reflection:
Instead of comparing yourself to others, give God thanks for how He created you.
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