(2 Cor 10:12) 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.
Keeping up with the Jones’ is as old as time. In Paul’s day the false teachers in the Corinthian church were comparing themselves among themselves instead of living by God’s standards. Paul told the Christians to not do what the world does . . . fall into comparisons. It’s just not wise.
The trap of comparing yourself to others comes in two ways. The first is pride. When I compare myself with others who are not as good as me in a certain category I can become prideful and arrogant. It makes me feel better about myself . . . at least for a while. Until someone else comes along and is better than me.
That then leads to the second result of comparing myself with others. Insecurity. Someone else is better and gets all the attention. That makes me feel stupid and less than. I feel like Ziggy with a deflated ego. I’m a nothing, a worm. Woe is me!
Is there a way we get out of this double trap of comparisons? Yes . . . there are two ways. One is to measure yourself against the Lord. That way you’ll have no basis for pride. Next is to measure yourself against yourself. In other words, just be yourself and do the best you can do with what you’ve got. That’s all God requires of us. This verse sums it up:
(Col 3:23-24) And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.
It’s all right there. Do what you do with passionate enthusiasm. Do what you do as with proper motivation. People may look down on you and not appreciate who you are and what you do. But God will reward you for what you have done with what you were given.
Beware! Don’t compare!! Do your work as unto the Lord so you will receive the supreme approval from the One who appreciates you and your work the most:
(Mat 25:21) "His lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.'
Louie