A Prayer About Comparisons

When I measure myself against others

DEAR GOD,

Comparisons can be deadly, but making them can become a habit. In society, people are always being recognized and rewarded for doing better or more than anyone else. The best in sports, singing, dancing, or just being beautiful or handsome are crowned. Today I fell into the comparison trap when I began to excuse my behavior because someone else acted poorly. I’m so much better, I thought, and I didn’t even consider my own faults and mistakes. At other times I feel bad about myself and my performance because a friend seems to be doing so much better. These are false measurements that can only hurt me, causing me to think that I am either better than I am or worse. I know that your standards and expectations for me are all that matter, that you motivate and empower me through your Spirit to make the right choices, and that you give me grace. Forgive me for these frivolous and worthless comparisons, either excusing or accusing, and help me keep focused on you and your Word.

Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else. For we are each responsible for our own conduct. Galatians 6:4-5