Articles
Comparisons
Paul said, “For we dare not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise” (2 Cor. 10:12).
I think one of the curses we impose on ourselves is comparing ourselves with others. It’s a trap. We look at what others can do, and we may not be able to do what they do. We look at what others may have, and we may not be able to have the same thing or have as much. We look at how others are accepted but we may not be as accepted. The comparisons go on and on. All we do is beat ourselves up comparing ourselves with others.
We compare someone else’s strength against our weakness. When we compare ourselves to others, we're often comparing their best features against our average ones. It's like being right-handed and trying to play an instrument with your left hand. Not only do we naturally want to be better than them, but the realization that we are not often becomes self-destructive. We often skew judgment by comparing our lesser qualities to someone’s best qualities. Which is like judging a fish by its ability to climb a tree. Comparisons do not give an accurate picture.
Also, comparing ourselves with others, we never see our strengths, gifts, and talents. We never see our good traits. We never see our contributions to life. We never see our own value or purpose. Therefore, we are never grateful for who we are and what we have.
How can we defeat this self-destructive habit? First, be aware it is happening. It can be subtle. Second, quit comparing. We don’t know what others are going through. If we knew more about the one with whom we compare ourselves, it might help us see the emptiness of doing so. Third, practice gratitude. Gratitude will enable us to see how privileged we really are. Fourth, be comfortable with our own imperfections. No one is perfect! We all do a little “air-brushing” to cover up our flaws. Finally, be kind to yourself. We can be our own worst critics. Self-evaluation is valuable, but make sure the standard of that evaluation is not someone else. No one is as good as they think they are or is as bad as they say they are.
The truth is, I can only be me and you can only be you. Each one of us is unique and one of a kind. The one thing we share in is that we are made in the image of God. The most important things in life are the internal, not the external. The most important thing is not how we measure up with others, but how we measure up with Christ. “For not he who commends himself is approved, but who the Lord commends” (2 Cor. 10:18). Focus on being the best YOU that only YOU can be.
Rickie Jenkins
