Sep 28, 2023
Episode Summary:
Do you constantly compare yourself with others? On social media,
in your neighborhood, at church, or in the school drop-off lane, do
you push yourself to prove that you measure up . . . and then feel
ashamed when you don’t? Measuring yourself against others isn’t
healthy. And it isn’t God’s plan. In fact, the way of Jesus is
completely upside down from this measure-up world. He invites us to
follow him and be restored to freedom, confidence, and joy. Join me
with Shannon Popkin as we address how to stop comparing yourself to
others.
Quotables from the episode:
- The constant effort to prove that I measure up (or try to hide
when I don’t), does not lead to a life of freedom and joy. Here’s
what does: learning to live me-free.
- At its root, comparison places value on our differences.
- Comparison is really a pride issue—it keeps us focused on
ourselves.
- When we compare ourselves to others, we focus on how we measure
up (or don’t) like lines on a measuring glass. But Jesus points out
the spout—that place where we pour out on others.
- Comparison 1) distracts me from my purpose; 2) depletes my
productivity, and 3) destroys our potential.
- When we fall prey to comparison, we need to ask ourselves “Is
this something Jesus would say to me?”
- Comparison is a tactic of the enemy, whether we are comparing
our appearance, our status, our sin, or even our ministry for Jesus
to others’.
- Humility is a key to combatting comparison.
- Comparison is often bred because we don’t desire to be “less
than” others, but in God’s economy those who are the least, are
considered the greatest.
- There is NO exclusivity in the kingdom of God.
- Healthy comparison includes those times we are inspired and
learn from others, and are then encouraged to be and do what I am
uniquely called to do.
- Comparison divides us and causes us to back away, when God is
calling us to move toward him!
- When tempted to compare yourself to others, ask yourself “who
am I listening to?” Scripture says “my sheep know my voice,” so be
sure you are listening for God’s voice.
Scripture References:
- Philippians 2:5-7 ESV Have this mind among
yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus,[a] 6 who, though he was
in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be
grasped,[b] 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a
servant
- James 3:14-15 ESV But if you have bitter
jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be
false to the truth. 15 This is not the wisdom that comes down from
above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.
- Matthew 20:26-27 ESV But whoever would be
great among you must be your servant,[c] 27 and whoever would be
first among you must be your slave,[d] 28 even as the Son of Man
came not to be served but to serve,
Recommended Resources:
Social Media Links for Guest and Host:
Connect with Shannon Popkin:
Website /
Podcast
/ Facebook /
Instagram /
Twitter / YouTube
For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at:
Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip /
Order Book Hope Prevails /
Website
/ Blog
/ Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)
/ LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube
Guest:
From the platform, page, and podcast mic, Shannon Popkin invites
women to drink deeply of God’s story, and live like it’s true.
Shannon’s books include Comparison Girl, and Control
Girl, and she hosts the “Live Like It’s True” podcast. Shannon
has been featured on FamilyLife Today, Revive Our Hearts, and
Proverbs 31.
Shannon is happy to be sharing life with Ken, who makes her
laugh every day. Together, they have the joy of watching their
three young-adult kids become the amazing people God created them
to be.
Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson