Scripture
For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ. -Galatians 1:10
God made us in His image. He uniquely created each of our personalities, characteristics, talents, and gifts. We have been created with a specific purpose and plan, which means that it is a waste of time comparing ourselves to others. God promised in Jeremiah that He had a plan and an expected end for us. This means that we never have to compare our lives or our spiritual walk to another's. When we begin to do this, we open the door for Satan’s lies to come into our hearts. When we wish for another brother or sister’s gift and/or anointing, we send a message to God that what He’s given us is not enough. It starts with the assumption that we all have the same journey and purpose, and life, which is not true. Comparison essentially causes us to sacrifice our ability to grow in the giftings that He’s bestowed upon us.
Beloved, where does your validation come from? Whose approval are you seeking in this life? The scripture above is a reminder of who we should seek for our validation and purpose. Comparing any aspect of your life to someone else’s suggests that you are displeased with yours. It implies that you are following the world’s idea of who you should be over who God has called you to be. Whose voice is louder in our lives? Is it God’s voice or the systems of this world? When we seek man’s standard to give us validation, we are left feeling vulnerable to the comparison. Comparison will always cause us to look in a faulty mirror. It will steal our joy, and it promotes the enemy’s lies. Comparison says you are not enough and that you are not equipped to live out your purpose. The truth is, God has given us everything we need for His plan set before us. James 1:17 says, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.”
Beloved, the ultimate goal of a Christian’s life should be to please God, not get the approval of man. When we submit our lives to Christ, we become free from the need for human validation. We no longer have to conform to worldly standards. Our confidence needs to be in God, who gives us good and perfect gifts to help us succeed at what He has already planned for us before the foundation of the world. Therefore, comparison hinders us from aligning our lives to God’s plan for our lives. Beloved, you are an original, fearfully and wonderfully made, and no one compares to you. So, to that end, you should not be comparing God’s beautiful creation, which you are, to anyone else.
Prayer
Father, we come asking for help to seek your approval above all else. Forgive us for the times we have compared and tried to win favor with people instead of prioritizing your will for our lives. May our lives be a testament of your grace. In Jesus' name. Amen
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