Lately I’ve been talking about “Keeping up with the Joneses.” It’s an expression that has to do with how you think you’re measuring up (and keeping up) with the people around you. It has to do with comparison.

And do you know what? It’s an exhausting way to live.

In an incredibly honest interview with Vogue Magazine, pop singer Madonna said she feels mediocre and uninteresting unless she keeps doing new things to prove she’s special. “Because even though I have become somebody,” she said, “I still have to prove that I am somebody. My struggle has never ended and I guess it never will.”

I think it reveals an inner turmoil that a lot of people face.

We think we have to somehow prove that we’re special and important and worthy in the eyes of others.

But that’s a distracted way to live.

In Psalm 141:8 David said, “But my eyes are fixed on you, Sovereign LORD…” I think that’s a good idea for all of us! When our eyes are fixed on God, it means we’re less fixated on how we measure up to others.

Today, as you go through your to-do list, make decisions, interact with others, and set priorities, try to fix your eyes on God, and try to focus your energy on being faithful him.

When you do that you’ll feel less of a need to prove your importance and worth to other people.

Being faithful in the eyes of God is more important than being impressive in the eyes of others.

By Matthew Ruttan

• Today’s “Up!” is partly based on my 22-minute Sunday podcast called “Dealing with the judgments of others vs the judgment of God.” You can listen in here.
• NEW BLOG (1-minute reading time): “Apparently today is the most depressing day of the year. Here’s why and what to do about it.”