In Galatians 5, verses 16, 25, and 26, we read, "Choose to be led by the Spirit and so escape the erratic compulsions of a law-dominated existence." Since this is the kind of life I have chosen, and perhaps the kind of life you, also, have chosen--the Life of the Spirit--let us make sure that we do not just hold it as an idea in our heads or a sentiment in our hearts, but work out its implications in every detail of our lives. That means we must not compare ourselves with others as if one of us is better than another. I have far more interesting things to do with my life; don't you? Each of us is an original. An original piece of great value--that's me... and you, too!
There have been times when I have compared myself with another, in fact, lots of times. But Paul says somewhere in his epistles, "Now is the time to grow up and put away childish things!" Now, then, is the time. I must grow up, finally! You, too, must grow up, if you need to do it. It's childish to compare myself to another when God has made me--and you--an original piece and every other person original, too.
No more comparing! Be glad that someone else has a gift of God different from your own! How else can your Spirit win a battle against you, Lord, if we do not have an army filled with many who have different gifts? Perhaps we are finally ready to grow up and enjoy our own originality!
Thank You, God. We trust you to send your Holy Spirit to remind us quickly if one of us begins to compare. Give us ears to hear the Spirit's still small voice. We want to grow up in You and enjoy our own originality! Amen.
Jo INMN
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