1Sam 30:6 David was greatly distressed because the men were talking of stoning him; each one was bitter in spirit because of his sons and daughters. But David found strength in the LORD his God.
DANGERS OF COMPARISON
Aside the devil firing the darts of discouragement to our hearts in the course of our assignment, sometimes, we can open the door for discouragement through comparison. When we compare ourselves, our progress and accomplishment with others around us, we may become discouraged. Comparison has a way of making us believe we're not doing enough or may be on the wrong course. Comparison can make you hate yourself, your spouse and what you do especially in these days of social media. Some persons became sad upon seeing the pictures and posts of friends. Wise people don't believe everything on social media because people only post for us what they want us to know but not their daunting struggles. If only we can see the challenges people go through, we won't ever compare ourselves with them again.
In 2Cor 10:12, Apostle Paul said it is unwise to get into the game of comparison: "For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise." If you look around your circle, you'll always find someone who is ahead of you. It is even worse when ministers of the Gospel get into the business of comparison. You'll find yourself running a race that is not set before you just to measure up. The moment you don't measure up, you'll find yourself swimming in the pool of discouragement.
Don't allow the devil keep your focus on what others are doing that you are not doing. Here, he brings you into the trap of comparison to discourage and derail you. Aside discouraging you from fulfilling God's assignment for your life, the enemy uses comparison to bring you into unhealthy competition.
Only the Spirit of God has the power to point you to what others are doing that you should be doing. Here, He aligns you with the plans and purposes of God for your life. I may have quitted ministry long ago due to discouragement stemming from comparison. The Lord taught me never to do that again and here I am still saying, "Lord, I'll go for you".
Father, I receive the inner strength to withstand discouragement. Lord, I'll go for you wherever you send me, anywhere, any day anytime, in Jesus name. Amen