Comparisons

Comparisons

By Tegan O’Keefe, Class of 2014

Motley, Minnesota

That means we will not compare ourselves with each other

as if one of us were better and another worse.

We have far more interesting things to do with our lives. Galatians 5:26

            Our world is full of comparisons. Which car is better? Which restaurant is tastier? Which shampoo is cheaper? Comparing helps us make decisions. It is a useful skill and we are taught to use it, but sometimes we take our comparisons too far. Who is better looking? Who is skinnier? These comparisons may seem harmless. But are they?

            When we accept Jesus as our Savior, we become children of God. “In Christ’s family there can be no division into Jew and non-Jew, slave and free, male and female. Among us you are all equal.” (Galatians 3:28) In God’s eyes there is no difference between pretty and ugly, weak and strong, confident and unsure. He loves us all equally. The people around us are our brothers and sisters in Christ. We should treat them with the kind of love that God shows us. There are no comparisons in God’s family.

            “Live creatively, friends. If someone falls into sin, forgivingly restore [them], saving your critical comments for yourself.” (Galatians 6:1) Often I look at others and think that I am better than they are. I have a better style, grade, family... What a terrible attitude! If I was as critical of myself as I am of others, I could be a much better person. “Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given, and then sink yourself into that. Don’t be impressed with yourself. Don’t compare yourself with others. Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life.” (Galatians 6:4-5)

            When we stop focusing on the faults of others, we see our own flaws. God can change us into better people, and use us for much more interesting purposes.