Comparison

I don't know about you, but something I struggle with, regrettably frequently, is comparison to others (sometimes even those closest to me). I think this is probably one of the biggest struggles women, in particular, face. It creates discontentment, an inward focus, causes us to give up b/c we think we're not as good as someone else, causes us to deny our own unique-ness and image of God, etc...you can fill in the blank.

Comparison is Satan's attack at our IDENTITY

"Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life." (Prov. 4:23)

We should guard our heart, our identity, because if we don't I believe we miss out on that abundant life Jesus talks about in John 10:10. We start believing lies like:

*"I don't look this way, so I won't be loved as much by others"

*"I'm a failure because I don't do as much as that person"

*"She's getting more attention than me...what can I do to get that kind of attention?"

*"God can't love you...you've done too much to hurt him. But maybe if you prove yourself worthy, he'll love you a little more or at least listen to your prayers."

*"He's a lot better at this or that, so I should just give up because I'll never be able to do it like that person."

*"Look at her. She's a better mother than you. She's judging you, so should stay away from her b/c she makes you feel inferior."

None of these come from God. They are lies from the world and Satan. But how often we listen to them! They are PARALYZING. And they keep us from God's specific call on each of our lives. These lies keep us from experiencing abundant life. So instead of comparing ourselves to one another, let's remind ourselves who we are in Christ and that ultimately Jesus is on the throne of our lives, not us. This is something I need to be reminded of often.

"Therefore, in view of God's mercy, offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing, and perfect will." (Romans 12:1-2)