The Snare of Comparison
The Snare of Comparison
John 21:20 (NIV)
Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is going to betray you?”)
Comparison is a snare expertly placed by the Enemy of our souls. There have been seasons of life that my journal entries have sounded like Peter asking exactly the same question:
What about her, Lord?
Will she be more successful than me?
Why is her book doing better than mine?
What’s she doing right that I’m doing wrong?
Do you just like her better?
Like Peter, I can get caught in a web of comparison, and it’s not pretty.
Here’s the thing: Comparison is a worthiness issue. Comparison causes us to doubt, diminish, and deny the goodness of God in us.
When Peter looked at “the disciple whom Jesus loved,” he felt doubtful, diminished, and jealous. He got caught up comparing his purpose to John’s and worried that his would come out lacking.
Reflect on a time when you fell into the snare of comparison. How did it affect your faith and self-worth?
What are some ways that comparison can distort our perception of God’s goodness and our identity in Christ?
How can you recognize and overcome the snare of comparison in your life? What steps can you take to refocus on God’s unique plan for you?