Don’t Let Comparison Rob Your Joy
“Comparison is the thief of joy.” -Theodore Roosevelt
Teddy Roosevelt, 26th President of the United States, delivered this famous token of wisdom in one of his speeches during the late 19th century. Now, in the age of social media, fear of missing out (FOMO) and facades, his words seem more relevant than ever.
Before Roosevelt left us with that memorable line, the Bible shed light on the spirit of comparison. From the Old Testament to the New Testament, we can see the consequences of comparison in examples like Jacob and Esau, Leah and Rachel, the story of Joseph, the story of the Prodigal Son and his brother, disputes between the disciples as to who was the greatest, and even in relation to spiritual gifts - all reminding us we aren’t the first nor the last to battle comparison.
What I’ve discovered over the course of my life is when we compare ourselves to others, we detract from our happiness and God’s plan for us.
Why do we compare ourselves?
In business and life, we’re taught to measure our successes, failures and timelines against those of others. Even worse, some of us compare our behaviors, emotions, relationships and appearances as well. This does not contribute to the more abundant life that God calls us to. When we spend time constantly focused on comparing our lives to the lives of others, it can lead to discontentment, resentment, and even pride. I have seen a lot of people during my career who were full of contentment in their job and with their pay, until they heard what somebody else was making. There’s a saying, “What God has for me, it is for me,” and we must remember that it will always arrive in His time. Read the parable of the vineyard workers in Matthew 20:1-16 which tells us we should not envy others when God is generous to them. We should share in their joy from God’s blessing.
What does the Bible say about comparison?
Paul shares the perfect example in 2 Corinthians 10:12, “We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise.” Paul uses this to illustrate he is not in competition with others and we shouldn’t be either because it is misguided. We are called to compare our lives to God’s standards, not our fellow man, and whatever our circumstances are, God is with us and has a reason for those circumstances, and in this truth, we should find freedom and contentment. God has blessed each of us way more than we actually deserve anyway!
What should we do when combatting comparison?
When the spirit of comparison arises in your life, and you just can’t seem to shake it, try to focus on God’s goodness and remember your answered prayers and where He has blessed your life. These reflections help anchor us in the current moment.
We must also remember to celebrate the wins of our brothers and sisters. Romans 12:15 says, “Rejoice with those who rejoice.” Just because it seems as though those around us are winning or prospering, it does not mean we are losing. We can cheer for their success while working toward our own successes. When we are truly happy for others, we won’t have time to focus on what their achievement means in relation to ourselves.
Lastly, practicing gratitude helps us to not become prideful. Everything we have and everything we are is because of what God has done for us and given to us. There is no such thing as being “self-made.”
Remember, we should never let comparison with others steal our joy.