Manna and Coffee

When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise. 2 Corinthians 10:12

How easy it is to compare ourself to someone else. One of two things happens – either we feel a whole lot better than the other person or we feel like we don’t measure up. We think that we are smarter, more capable, more personable or godlier or we think we’re not as smart, capable, personable, or as godly as those we come to compare ourself to.

It is easy to think that if we had more or knew more, we’d do more. But the truth is, even people who seem to have it all still struggle with doing more. The Bible opens with the story of a woman who had everything but that wasn’t enough.

God had established Eve as God’s child and the crown of God’s creation. God also gave Eve every desire: intimacy, beauty, security, significance, and purpose. Yet the devil conjured up the thought that she didn’t have enough by getting Eve to take her eyes off what she had and focus on what she didn’t have.

I’ve heard the devil whisper telling me all kinds of lies. Did you noticed that the devil’s questions and suggestions were intended to plant seeds of doubt in Eve’s heart? He wanted her to doubt God’s care and God’s goodness – whatever it was it wasn’t going to be enough.

The enemy’s whispers tempted Eve into seeking significance apart from God’s provision. He convinced her that something was missing in her life and that the forbidden fruit would make her be like God and who doesn’t want to be like God?

It was a foolish comparison, but all comparisons are. Yet we do it all the time – we play the if only game – if only I was like – if only I had a – you fill in the blank. If only – then I’d feel significant – satisfied – secure and happy – if only I had then I’d be all I can be.

Paul warns us that those who measure themselves by themselves, and compare themselves with themselves, are not wise. Comparison will always leave us feeling better than we should or worse than we should – but no matter it’s never enough. God wants us to realize that we are accepted, chosen and even adopted as God’s child. That we have been redeemed and forgiven and that we are complete in Jesus.

God wants us to realize that we can rest in the knowledge that God is working for our good in all circumstances of life. God wants us to be free from condemnation and that as God’s child we can never be separated from God’s unfailing love. We can be confident that God will complete the good work that God has begun in us.

Let us pray: Lord I do thank You that I’m chosen, holy, and dearly loved by You. When I’m tempted to find my significance apart from Your provision and promises do help me recognize the enemy’s lies. Remind me when I’m tempted to compare myself one way or the other that my confidence comes from the One who gave His all for me – Jesus. Amen.