Christlikeness

Galatians 6:4 But let each one test his own work, and then his reason to boast will be in himself alone and not in his neighbor. Comparing ourselves to others. We do it all the time, don't we? From appearance to attitudes, from education to experience, from clothes to cars to career, we like to see how we are matching up with those around us. But here's the problem. The exercise leaves us at one end or the other of the “pride spectrum.” We feel either "holier than thou" or "woe is me." Comparing ourselves to others is a lose-lose proposition! The remedy is found in today’s passage.

• Each one should test his own work. At the end of the day, I will stand before God to give an account of what he has given me. How have I used the gifts of time, money, opportunities, and spiritual gifts? Other people have been given different backgrounds, gifts, experiences, and opportunities but I won’t have to answer for them. The accounting before God will be very personal.
• Each person should “boast” in his or her personal actions. Taking pride in what I do is not a bad thing, as long as I understand the source and focus of my actions. Anything I do worthwhile is empowered by the Holy Spirit with the purpose of bringing honor to God. When I submit to the Spirit's control for the purpose of honoring God, this is something for which I can be appropriately proud.

When we compare ourselves to others, our progress is either paralyzed or puffed up. Our end goal should always be Christlikeness and we all have a long way to go! Talking Points

• Ask God to help you focus on his work in your life.
• Ask God to help you teach (show and tell) your children the important truth of focusing on their uniqueness and identity in Christ.

Father, please keep me from falling into the trap of comparing myself to others. May you always be the focus and standard for my thoughts, words, and actions. In Jesus’ name. Amen.  

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