October 3

We tend to compare ourselves even though the Bible admonishes that this is not wise (II Corinthians 10:12). Someone is always going to be better looking, in better shape, richer, more successful. Where does it end? It ends in our frustration at falling short of the image of who we want to be that’s in our head.

We are told in Hebrews 13:5 that we should be content with what we have—and that is followed by the promise that Jesus will not fail or forsake us. Often our concern regarding what we have or who we are is rooted in the fear that we will fall short, that we won’t ‘make it’ in life.

The reality that we will not be failed or forsaken by the One who loves us most and gave His life for us negates that fear. If we stand on the totality of that assurance, we will rejoice in Him, no matter what we have or what we lack. Does that mean we shouldn’t strive to attain worthy pursuits? Not at all.

However the One to whom we should compare our efforts is not another frail occupant of a tabernacle of flesh. We should compare ourselves to Jesus and seek after His goals. Ephesians 4:12, 13 says, “He desires that we attain full maturity in Christ, attain our completeness in Him.” Nothing excels that goal