Comparisons
By Susan Klein
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”
Psalm 139: 14a
My daughter and I often watch the Annual Academy Awards show. I have to admit, we do enjoy seeing the stars parade down the red carpet all decked out in their evening splendor! We can’t help but become armchair critics as we decide for ourselves who has the most glamorous gown. One year, my husband read an article stating that the one star who sets the fashion standard for all to emulate is Jennifer Lopez. Wow! Imagine having to compare yourself with her!By Susan Klein
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”
Psalm 139: 14a
Yet, isn’t that what we so often find ourselves doing, comparing ourselves to others? It’s been happening since Bible times. We compare our looks, our talents and abilities, even our possessions. We sometimes shrug back from accepting a job or a ministry opportunity because we feel that someone else is more qualified. Didn’t Moses do the same? As God spoke to him from the burning bush, sending him to bring the Israelites out of Egypt, he replied, “Who am I that I should go...” In other words, “I’m not good enough! Surely you could find plenty of others more qualified to do the job.” Then there are the brothers of Joseph. They compared the attention he received from their father to the attention they received, and became so jealous they plotted to kill him.
On the other end of the spectrum are the Pharisees. They thought themselves superior by observing rites and ceremonies, and separating themselves from the common people. In the book of Luke, one Pharisee stands up to pray publicly and actually thanks God that he is not like other men—such as robbers, adulterers, or even like the tax collector standing next to him.
God has created each of us in His own image. He delighted in putting much thought and consideration into making us just the way we are. All of our talents and abilities are meant to complement each other, not compete with each other. He gifted each of us according to how He would use us to do His will here on earth. We were created intentionally and purposefully. We are valuable to God! We don’t have to worry if someone else sings better, or speaks more eloquently, or has the most glamorous gown on the runway. We are all “one of a kind,” hand-made by a loving Creator. Take joy in knowing you are uniquely you.
GOING DEEPER:
1. Do you struggle with comparing yourself to others? Ask God to remind you of your own unique gifts, talents and abilities. Pray for contentedness in these.
2. If you have never taken a spiritual gifts survey, now might be a good time. If you don’t know where to find one, ask someone at your local church.
FURTHER READING:
Galatians 6:3-5; Romans 12:3-8; Psalm 139:13-16
Susan is a wife and mother of two. She leads a small group and teaches for Tuesday a.m. Bible Study.
