Rivalry is a bigger part of our lives than we often realize. Maybe you have an actual rival, someone you’re always competing with—maybe in sports, at school, or in the office. And although what I’m about to say can apply to those situations, let’s think more broadly. It’s easy to continually compare ourselves to others. … Continue reading The antidote to human rivalry
comparison
Affirmation from the wrong people or places
There was a young boy who got C’s on his report card. His dad said that if he just worked harder, he could probably get B’s. Time passed and the boy worked hard. He really wanted to impress his dad. He sooo wanted his affirmation and praise! The next report card came and, lo and … Continue reading Affirmation from the wrong people or places
Social media torture = less contentment
We’ve been thinking about invisible robbers who steal your contentment. And more specifically, one who tries to convince you to put too much stock in (a) comparing yourself to others (in person or online), and (b) the judgments and criticisms of others. It’s definitely a big topic. Alain de Bottom wrote a book about “Status … Continue reading Social media torture = less contentment
Constant comparisons and negative criticisms
Lately I’ve been thinking about invisible robbers who steal your contentment. The latest one tries to convince you to put too much stock in (a) comparing yourself to others (in person or online), and (b) the judgments and criticisms of others. Is it just me, or did hundreds of you just nod your heads in … Continue reading Constant comparisons and negative criticisms
The Rat Race
There's a section from a children’s book called Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH which is an insightful commentary on 1 Timothy 6:6-8 which says, "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we … Continue reading The Rat Race
Like water off a duck’s back
“You never do it right.” “Your priorities are always messed up.” “You always say the wrong thing!” How do you respond when people unduly judge and criticize you? If you’re like a lot of other people (including me), probably not very well! So I stand in awe of the apostle Paul when he says, “I … Continue reading Like water off a duck’s back
Proving that you’re somebody
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 … Continue reading Proving that you’re somebody
Why other people’s standards are distracting
As you know, the “Up!” devo was on a break for a week while I was on vacation. But now I’m back and ready to walk faithfully into a new year. I hope you are too. And one of the things that helps us do that is to evaluate what we’re spending our time thinking … Continue reading Why other people’s standards are distracting
