Comparison is Stupid

I've been thinking a lot about comparison lately. I even deleted my Facebook app on my phone today because I was really trying to live everyone else's virtual life instead of my own. Seriously. I'd check FB whenever I had downtime during the day, and frankly right now, I have a lot of down time (if Elynna's content and playing and Alden's napping and the laundry is done, I have downtime then, usually). Or I'd check it when I was in the bathroom (Admit it, you do it, too), or waiting in line somewhere.

Anyway, I was really starting to believe that all of you guys' lives are better than mine. Some of my friends have cuter kids. Some are cuter pregnant ladies Some of you guys are stellar at taking the perfect photo with instagram. Have a better grocery budget. Have better exercise discipline. Have amazing sewing/quilting/crocheting skills. Many of you are skinnier than I am. Blah, blah, blah...

So, I'm gonna admit it. I have totally been comparing myself to others and it's really not good. Making me forget about all the GOOD STUFF that I have right in front of me. Two beautiful kids, an amazing loving husband, two hands to cook and tickle, a creative mind to manage a home, thin -uh-forearms, etc...

And while I'm watching all of you live your life, I'm missing out on mine.

Another thought about comparison is that God made us all different for a reason. He doesn't just like variety, which I believe he does, He truly has made each one of us unique. Each of us have a unique DNA, just as there are billions of different stars out in the universe, and it's to show the glory of God. How dare I compare myself to my brothers or sisters who are obviously supposed to NOT be like me?

I think the image of the Kingdom of God, the Church being like a BODY is perfect. Each "member" of the body has a different role--a unique role--and must function as it was created to, or the body is, dare I say, dysfunctional (I laugh out loud at my own joke). Each member has a role, down to the tiniest cell.  And if we are too worried about what other parts of the body are doing, we're not able to carry out the specific duties that we are supposed to do.

That being said, if you've ever compared yourself to me, don't . I have my own share of flaws, faults, problems and I'm just making it through life the best way that I know how. But I have gifts, skills and talents that are totally different from yours, and God did that for a reason, I'm sure. I'm ready to act in the gifts and talents and skills that God has given me for this season and not compare to someone that's not ME.

Go read 1 Peter 4:10-11.  It's good stuff and supports what I've said here.

So, yeah... Comparison is stupid. ;)