Green Pastures
Weekly Devotional
Green Pastures, Quiet Waters
Comparisons
There are two truisms relating to comparisons: “Comparisons are the thief of joy.” and “Comparisons are the fast track to discontent and depression.” Short, simple, True.
Did you ever find yourself making comparisons between yourself and someone you know and not quite measuring up? Many of us have. It applies to men and women, but I have a suspicion that women might find themselves doing it a little more often than men, especially when it comes to our appearance. Or perhaps women are just a little more open about expressing those thoughts than men are. Men have as much pride, but they may be realized in different areas, like their career choices, their educational level, etc.
“Wow,” (he says) “ I wish my wife looked like Bob’s wife.” “Bob has a much better job; no wonder he can afford a nicer house.” (She says,) “She is a much better singer / is slimmer and prettier than I am/ has a nicer husband”. Etc. And on it goes, recounting all the ways others are better off. Why can’t I be like – someone else?
Many have difficulty being content with their position in life, whether it’s looks, career, family – you name it. Some even compare their spiritual life to that of another, spending a lot of time and emotion complaining that they just do not measure up to other people they know. It is a very negative, joyless way to live – and a hard habit to break, often leading to depression and discontentment with what God has given us and the life he has blessed us with.
There is another side to the comparison issue. Sometimes we compare ourselves to others and decide we are “better than…” So, what’s wrong with that? At least I’m not down in the dumps because of the negative thinking.” But can you imagine the hard work it takes to continually have to try to stay ahead of others, working hard to maintain your status?
There is a very direct verse from the New Living Translation that states “"Oh, don't worry; we wouldn't dare say that we are as wonderful as these other men who tell you how important they are! But they are only comparing themselves with each other, using themselves as the standard of measurement. How ignorant!” (II Corinthians 10:12)
And James tells us “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.” (James 3:14-16 NLT)
O.K. – I think we can agree that comparisons are not a good way to go if we want to embrace contentment and joy. But if you or I find ourselves struggling with that, what can we do about it?
1. We can develop a better understanding of who God is – His wisdom, love, how He provides for His children. He knows exactly what each of His own genuinely needs and the promise in His word is that He will supply all our needs. Philippians 4:19 states: "And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus" (NIV). If we feel we are genuine lacking something important, ask God for it.
2. Learn the difference between WANTS and NEEDS. Learning that is a matter of self discipline, and we develop that through prayer and learning to say “NO” when we must.
3. Embrace Gratitude: Consciously practicing gratitude for what you already have helps break the cycle of always wanting more. Recognizing your own unique journey builds contentment. “1 Thessalonians 5:18 reminds us to "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus".
It’s a double minded person who gives God thanks for his food and other material possessions yet complains because they are not enough.
“Every minute you spend wishing you had someone else’s life is a minute spent wasting yours.” —Unknown
B. Klassen beatrice.klassen@outlook.com