Have you ever found yourself falling into the “yabbut” trap? It’s that insidious cycle of doubt and comparison that begins with the word “but” following an acknowledgment of God’s promises. You know the feeling—God makes incredible promises to us, but we respond with “yabbut” as we compare ourselves to others or doubt our worth. In this devotional, we’ll explore the danger of the “yabbut” syndrome and how we can find freedom by embracing God’s promises.

In the garden of Eden, Eve encountered the enemy’s whispers, tempting her to be “more” and “have” more, all the while seeking significance apart from God’s provision. The serpent convinced her that something was missing from her life, and that the forbidden fruit would make her “like God.”

“God knows that when you eat from it, your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil,” the serpent whispered. Eve was tempted, and her decision led to consequences. She saw that the fruit was desirable, so she took some and ate it. Adam, who was with her, also partook. Their eyes were opened, and they realized they were naked; in their newfound shame, they sewed fig leaves together to make coverings for themselves. NAKED and AFRAID. That’s what being a “yabbut” will lead to.

When we succumb to the “yabbut” syndrome, we diminish God’s promises with our doubts and comparisons:

God says, “You are complete in Me.” But we think, “If only I had what she has.”

God says, “You are chosen.” But we compare ourselves to others, thinking they are more talented or have better-behaved children.

God says, “You are forgiven, redeemed.” But we remember past mistakes and traumas.

God says, “I will complete the work I have started in you.” But we fear failure, inadequacy, and falling short.

God says, “I love you.” But we worry about disappointment and rejection.

Every time we insert a “BUT,” we undermine, devalue, and negate the promises of God. It doesn’t matter what we or others think; what matters is what God says.