Is there such a thing as healthy comparison? In the article, a lady called Sophia puts it this way...... "When I compare myself to the standard Jesus sets for me, the result can be healthy change. When I am discontented with my knowledge of, trust in and obedience to God, and I desire to serve Him more, comparison can produce good fruit.”
Downward comparison would be healthy if it resulted in compassion and upward comparison if it led to us being inspired by others to better serve God. When we recognise that God has gifted someone in a particular way, we should praise Him for the way He is using them for His glory.
Matthew 6:33 tells us to seek the kingdom of God and his righteousness above all things; to be consumed with His character, plans and purposes for His world. What part does He want you to play in His Kingdom? How does Jesus want you to display His glory to the world? How does Jesus deal with sinful comparison? In John 21:22 He tells Peter about his (Peter’s) future death as a martyr. Peter responds by pointing to John and asking “What about him?” and Jesus says, “If it is My will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow Me!” The punch line question – What is that to you? Those are the words that put this issue into perspective for us. If God blesses someone else, what is that to you? And then the clincher: “You follow Me!” Instead of worrying about the circumstances and gifts of our friends, we are to focus on our relationship with Jesus. Amen to that!!!!
We need to follow Jesus completely and not compare to how others follow Him. Instead of being preoccupied with performance, let’s focus our attention wholeheartedly on Him.
As we take a good look at our own motives, and start to recognise sinful comparison in our lives, God tells us, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9
May we courageously reveal areas of unhealthy comparison and repent before God, asking Him to help us turn to Him alone as our true source of security.
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