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Galatians 6:4

Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else….

Comparing ourselves to others. We do it all the time, don’t we? From appearance to attitudes, from education to experience, from clothes to cars to career, we like to see how we are matching up with those around us. But here’s the problem. The comparison leaves us at one end of the pride spectrum. We feel either “better than they are” or “woe is me.” Comparing ourselves to others is a lose-lose proposition.

The remedy is found in today’s passage.

• Each one should test their own actions. At the end of the day, we will stand before God to give an accounting of what He has given us. How have we used our gifts of time, money, opportunities, and spiritual gifts? Other people have been given different backgrounds, gifts, experiences, and opportunities. We won’t have to answer for them. The accounting before God will be very personal.
• Each one should take pride in their personal actions. Taking pride in what we do is not a bad thing, as long as we understand the source and focus of our actions. Anything we do worthwhile is empowered by the Holy Spirit with the purpose of bringing honor to God. When we submit to the Spirit’s control for the purpose of honoring God, this is something for which we can be appropriately proud.

When we compare ourselves to others, our own progress is either paralyzed or puffed up. Our goal is Christlikeness. That is the only comparison to make!

Father, please keep me from falling into the trap of comparing myself to others. May You always be the focus and standard for my thoughts, words, and actions. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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Read through the Bible this year:

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Today on The Journey Broadcast:

 

Where is Your Faith?