A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones. (Proverbs 14:30) 

 

One of these days I’m going to put it all on Facebook—not just the good stuff!” 

 

My friend Sue’s comment—made casually over lunch with her husband—caused me to laugh out loud and also to think. Social media can be a good thing, helping us stay in touch with and pray for friends across the years and miles. But if we’re not careful, it can also create an unrealistic outlook on life. When much of what we see posted is a “highlight reel” of “the good stuff,” we can be misled into thinking others’ lives are without trouble, and wonder where our own went wrong. 

 

Comparing ourselves with others is a sure recipe for unhappiness. When the disciples compared themselves to each other (see Luke 9:46; 22:24), Jesus quickly discouraged it. Soon after His resurrection, Jesus told Peter how he would suffer for his faith. Peter then turned to John and asked, “Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do? Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follow thou me” (John 21:21–22). 

 

Jesus pointed Peter to the best remedy for unhealthy comparisons. When our minds are focused on God and all He’s done for us, self-focused thoughts fall gently away and we long to follow Him. In place of the world’s competitive strain and stress, He gives us His loving presence and peace. Nothing can compare with Him. 

 

How can you use social media in a God-honoring way? How can a real relationship with God keep you from making unhealthy comparisons? 

 

When I read this devotion I felt it was one that needed to be shared many times over. I’m sure we have all had a moment of reflection with regards to comparing someone else’s life with our own and as today’s devotion reminds us, it’s a recipe for unhappiness. 2 Corinthians 10:5 says, Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. Don’t compare, choose to be a better version of yourself. Comparison is the thief of joy. 

 

Have a beautiful and uplifting day in The Lord! 

 

Today’s Reading is Deuteronomy 30:16