No Comparison

Galatians 6:4 (NLV):  “Everyone should look at himself and see how he does his own work. Then he can be happy in what he has done. He should not compare himself with his neighbor.” 

     We are individually and uniquely made by the hand of our Creator as he knit us together in our mothers’ wombs.  We have our own special styles, tastes, likes and dislikes. We have wonderful skills and talents, though similar in type are all different in degree, scope and number. We are special to God as individual works of art on his potter’s wheel. It is said that God’s gift to us is our talent, but our gift to God is how we use it for his glory.

     As we go about the purpose of our lives and fulfill the works that God has placed along our paths we must be careful not to compare our journey with that of others. Even cars driving along on the same highway, heading in the same direction travel at different speeds going to different destinations.  Some drivers get on and never change lanes until it is time to exit; while others weave about like honey bees darting from flower to flower. 

     The scripture reminds us to scrutinize ourselves and to run quality control tests on our own work. As we focus on doing our best with the cards we have been dealt, we should not have time or interest in comparing our walk with anyone else.  It is good to have role models and to look up to others for examples.  It is ok to glance at the paths that others have taken so that we might learn from others' mistakes and good fortunes; but we must draw the line when we try to disregard what God has prepared for us.  Our journey is special and our way has been ordained by God.  Every walk that looks easy or better than the one we are on only causes us to sell short the benefits that God has placed in the journey we have been assigned. 

    Have your trips, stumbles and falls along the way been because your path has been so rough and rugged or has it been because you have your eyes gazing in someone else’s lane and missed the warnings, potholes and pitfalls on your own path?. Stay in your own lane and enjoy what lies ahead for you.  God is a way maker and your journey will bring you joy and him glory. 

Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a victoriously GREAT day! Be blessed! Rev. Dr. JoAnn