Do you fall into the comparison trap? It's a common ploy of Satan to get us to become dissatisfied with what God has given us. We suddenly become aware of what other people around us have. Maybe they have a bigger home, a better job, or a larger paycheck. Or maybe they just seem to have more talent or intelligence or skill than we do. Then once we begin comparing ourselves to others, envy and jealousy set in, which are soon followed by bitterness and misery.
Joy comes from one thing alone: a sure knowledge that you are saved through the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ.
If you are constantly comparing yourself to others, you will feel that you never quite measure up, that something is lacking in your life, or that life is just unfair. You begin to feel that your own self-worth is somehow insignificant. Comparisons rob you of the joy that comes from seeing yourself as a unique, beloved, and one-of-a-kind person. They rob you of the joy that comes from delighting in the way God has made you and His promises for your good.
Real joy does not come from favorable economic conditions, being accepted by society, or by owning a luxury car. These bring only temporary happiness at best. Joy comes from one thing alone: a sure knowledge that you are saved through the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. Real joy comes from knowing that your sins are forgiven, that you are in a right standing with God, and that He is working all things together for your eternal good—preparing an eternal home for you.
Prayer: God, forgive me for the times I fall into the comparison trap. Thank You for being the source of my real joy! I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit" (Romans 15:13).
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