The Comparison Rut 

By Toni Babcock

The Apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians, "For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise." (II Corinthians 10:12 KJV) 

Paul packs a lot of wisdom in one sentence. He begins with the admonition that we dare not compare ourselves with those that commend themselves. When we testify of the great things that God is doing in our lives, God must get all the glory. Nothing should be said in a way that will exalt ourselves, or encourage comparisons, but only said in a way that will humbly point others to Jesus. We are called to be a fingerpost pointing to Jesus in all our life and conversation. Nothing more, nothing less. 

What are we saying about ourselves and our faith when we begin to compare ourselves to others? Of whom are we testifying? A superficial experience, or the truth? Ourselves, or Jesus Christ? When we are resting our case in the hands of Jesus in the simplicity of faith, commendation by others will not be the holy grail that becomes preeminent in our mind. On the other hand, when human commendation and standards become the measure, eventually we find ourselves becoming people pleasers instead of God pleasers and all the while the light of Christ grows dimmer. 

Today’s Christian writer is the author of the recently released book The Stone Writer. Her book can be read for free for a limited time HERE in exchange for a simple review. Contact