Comparison

     I recently read the following quote from Theodore Roosevelt, "Comparison is the thief of joy." Today in our women's Bible Study I shared that statement with a beautiful young mom who is struggling with whether to keep her daughter in a youth sports program. The other moms are making competitive comments and digs toward her and her talented child. She has lost her joy with a sport she also enjoyed as a little girl.
     What does the Bible say about comparing ourselves with others, how we should work and where our strength should comes from? 
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.
Colossians 3:17 ESV 
And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Philippians 4:12 I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. ¹³ I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

     Rather than spend our days competing with others, comparing our lives against others and struggling daily to keep our joy; the Word makes it clear that if we dedicate our work to God and His purposes and to His glory, we can consider it all joy. KT

What a joy to watch a child have fun at play!

James 1: ² Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, ³ because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.