Stuck in the Comparison Trap

Have you ever been stuck in the comparison trap? Maybe your neighbor got a new car, your friend got a promotion, or you just always feel “behind” compared to others.

Many Christians struggle with comparing themselves to others – both financially and spiritually. Christ warned us to guard our hearts against greed, covetousness, ego, and pride – Satan’s tools to control and manipulate the world.

Jesus said, Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions. (Luke 12:15)

Satan would love to take the riches that God provides you and divert them for his use. Today, even Christians evaluate others on the basis of how much they have and how successful they are in worldly terms.

Sadly, this spills over into our spiritual lives. A woman told us about her struggle with comparison when she doesn’t know as many Scripture references as other women in her Bible study.

The Apostle Paul said he learned to be content. It doesn’t come automatically! But contentment can be learned by establishing a reasonable standard of living and rejecting what the world tells us we need. It’s a ‘living below our means’ mindset so that we can give, save and invest.

By developing thankful hearts, we can appreciate all God’s provided and live free of jealousy and selfish ambition. Recognizing our role as God’s stewards allows us to rejoice with other people’s successes and treasure the simple things that bring us pleasure.

We knew a family who lived in a small house with 3 girls. It was simple but tasteful and they were content because that home was filled with love. They were grateful and generous, never feeling the need to impress others. Now, that’s an example for all of us!

For more help or encouragement in your finances, call one of our staff members at 800-722-1976 or go online to crown.org