The Comparison Rut – by Toni Babcock
"For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise," (II Corinthians 10:12 KJV)
A common pitfall Christians sometimes fall into is what I call the "comparison rut". It is a destructive ploy, used by the devil to keep our eyes off of the Lord and onto people. Granted, there is nothing wrong with looking up to, or wanting to emulate great Christians, but if you've ever felt defeated or less of a Christian because your spiritual progress hasn't catapulted as fast as somebody else's, or you don't feel like you'll ever measure up to another Christian - it's time to take a serious look at what you are telling yourself and why.
On the other hand, if you are that blessed believer oozing with confidence, along with an astounding road to Damascus experience with Jesus, be sure that God gets all the glory. When you tell your salvation story, nothing should be said in a way that will encourage comparisons by others, but only said in a way that will humbly point others to Jesus. We are all called to be a fingerpost pointing to Jesus, not ourselves.
Hope in Christ is built on the truth of God's word. When we, in the simplicity of faith, rest our case in the finished work of Christ on the cross, commendation by others will not become the holy grail that grabs preeminence in our minds. That is why the Apostle Paul's words in II Corinthians 10:12 are so relevant, not only for the church in his day, but for all Christians for all time.
Toni is a freelance Christian writer from Minnesota. Find more articles and published books HERE. |
