"The Comparison Trap"

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

I love the Corinthians. (It's evident that Paul loved these guys too!)

They seem to have had almost every conceivable "church problem." Seems like a biggie was due to factions in the church....not much different than today is it? Anyways...I want to focus on the last part of II Cor 10:12..."but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise." We get in trouble almost EVERY time we try to compare or measure ourselves by anything other than the Word of God. We can err on either side of the equation.

We may look at others more carnal than ourselves (at least in our estimation) and judge that we are better off or spiritually superior. It is easy to preach with fervor and zeal against the things we have no affinity for. When we use other men and women as a measuring rod....we have no true plumb line. God's Word is the standard by which we will all be judged and we would do well to look to it for a true reflection or indicator of our spirituality since the Word is a "discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." (Heb 4:12)

There is another error we must guard against-an inferiority complex based on the perceived success of others. The older I get, the more I realize that the grass usually isn't greener on the other side. How often do we look at the success of others and deem ourselves failures because we are on a (perceived) lower level? We rarely take into account the sacrifices these individuals have made and we rarely consider that to whom much is given "much is required" (Luke 12:48). With greater promotion comes greater responsibility. Sometimes we are not at a level of maturity to handle "greater things" and so God in His mercy allows our character to develop before we are thrust into greater responsibility. Consider the life of Joseph; had he never experienced the sufferings at the hands of others, would he have been qualified to be the "prince of Egypt?"

There is no room for jealousy/envy in the body of Christ. God has given each one of us gifts according to our abilities (Matthew 25:15). So if God has entrusted me with 5 talents...then I shouldn't get all bent out of shape comparing myself to the guy with ten. Likewise I shouldn't look at the guy with one talent and "think more highly of myself than I ought." (Romans 12:3)

Just my thoughts today...I welcome your comments

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