Unhealthy Comparisons

Unhealthy Comparisons

II Corinthians 10:12: 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.

As a young man, living in these times, i am often faced with diverse temptations and so often conflicted within myself; having a part of me desiring to stay focused, yet another part desiring to let loose and go with the flow. One side wanting so bad to remain on the straight and narrow, yet another desiring to explore the broad way!

Perhaps the highest point of pressure for me, comes from the innate desire to be like everyone else. That is to own what others own, to wear what is in vogue, to drive what others drive or to put it in downtown slang, the desire to be the “happening guy.” I have found myself doing things not because i want to do them, but because I'm trying to keep at par with other people.

To be honest, life for most young people is like this: constantly in the rat race for “reps”. Wanting to be the one everyone looks up to and willing to do anything to be that person! Willing to live beyond your means just to be hailed and admired! Willing to go against your values and give your time and energy to a cause you don’t really believe in. I’ve been there, i’ve done that and here’s what i’ve learnt!

Comparing yourself with others is as aimless as racing on a highway with totally random cars; each car has a different destination! In a regular race setting, there is a goal and a finish line and so it makes sense to compete. But on the highway, one car is going home, the other to the office and another to school and so therefore, racing random cars makes no sense.

It’s the same with life! We all have specific paths and different purposes. We are all here for a different assignment and we are all heading for a different destination. It is important to find your own path and walk your own path, making choices that take you further towards your own finish line!

Apostle Paul says it is a lack of wisdom to engage in comparisons. He undoubtedly has an understanding of our different purposes and assignments! He understood that he had no reason to be jealous of Peter, because while Peter had been called to the Jews, he had been called to the Gentiles! He understood that Peter’s assignment was different from his and so he saw no need to compete. (Gal 2:7-8)

The problem with most of us is, we have not yet found our own assignment and so everyone’s life looks attractive. An understanding of your purpose will help you streamline your life, so you make decisions that move you towards your goal; thus removing the need for competition.

2 Cor 10:13(THE LIVING BIBLE) - But we will not boast of authority we do not have. Our goal is to measure up to God’s plan for us..”

Such profound words! “Our goal is to measure up to God’s plan for us.” This should be our goal in life! No to be like another, but to measure up to God’s plan and purpose for us! We are therefore in a competition not with others, but with ourselves! That is the competition God approves of! The unsatisfied feeling of living below purpose!

Refuse to compete, instead compel yourself to measure up to God’s plan! I have found that you can’t do both at the same time! It is either one or the other! Which will you choose?