“They . . comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.” 2 Corinthians 10:12 NKJV.
Nothing holy comes from comparisons that judge others or justify yourself.
My thoughts and comments today are about “foolish comparisons.”
Anyone can look better or worse depending on what or with whom they choose to compare themselves. That is a foolish and false comparison. Ever since our grandchildren were young, there has been an annual, back to school family night for measuring each one’s physical growth. They presently range from fourteen to twenty-four years old, so this has been going on for a while. Well, this year the two oldest dropped out, deciding their growth spurts were over.
Year after year, each grandchild stands against the same piece of wood molding as their height is measured, a parent noting and marking the date and child’s name. There is no other time they stand any straighter or stretch taller. Our intent is to measure their individual growth in that year; their goal seems more comparative and competitive, to see how much they have grown compared to their siblings or cousins. Growth is individual; no one is expected to grow at the same rate or grow to the same height. Inevitably, they are helpless to avoid comparing themselves. If they have grown as they hoped, they feel a measure of pride. If they have not, they feel failure; all over something natural and individual that they cannot control.
Adults also attempt to differentiate themselves through inadequate and inaccurate comparisons as well – things such as titles, education, friends, religion, politics, wealth, achievements, recognition, address, reputation, ethnicity, or whatever else they think will favorably distinguish them. Paul addressed our irresistible tendency, “For we dare not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise. We, however, will not boast beyond measure, but within the limits of the sphere which God appointed us . .” 2 Corinthians 10:12-13 NKJV. Nothing holy comes from comparisons that judge others or justify yourself. God says that is not wise.
You will be prone to selectively choose a lesser standard with whom you can feel superior! Foolish comparisons can only produce pride and self-deception. It is helpful to measure and know your progress; it is hurtful to compare your superiority or inferiority to others. If you must compare yourself with another and like our grandkids, you will not resist doing so, look instead into the mirror of God’s Word (See James 1:21-25 NKJV), and measure your growth by developing Christ-likeness; Christ alone is God’s singular and incomparable standard. “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose . . predestined to be conformed to the likeness of His Son.” Romans 8:28-29. Conformation to God’s original purpose is the work for which the Holy Spirit is given you. See Romans 12:1-2 NKJV.
God’s objective and assurance is clear: “Until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.” Ephesians 4:12 NIV. Spiritual maturity and fullness of Christ is how God measures you. God’s success is sure: “Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6 NIV. In grace, you can be what God intends.
My prayer for you today is that you cooperate with God, avoiding foolish comparisons.