This past week in church, my message focused on how we use our time. The truth is our fast-paced, over-worked world is constantly vying for more of our time. This topic led me to Hebrews 12:1 where the author tells us: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”
This is a great scripture that encourages us to throw off all those things that weigh us down and hold us back from what is truly important. The thing is, there are many things that weigh us down. And as I reread that verse this week, it was the last part that stood out to me. The part that says: “And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for US.”(Emphasis mine.)
God has a specific race marked out for each of us. And another struggle that can hinders us is comparison. We have this tendency to compare our race to the race of others. We can look at the lives of others and become jealous. Maybe their life seems easier or more exciting, maybe they have more accomplishments. Whatever the reason, comparison distracts us and keeps us from running the race God has for us.
Comparison also leads to discontentment as we focus on what we lack rather than appreciating what we have. God calls us to find contentment in Him, knowing that our true satisfaction comes from our relationship with Him—not from things or achievements.
Comparison can be a dangerous and destructive habit that hinders our spiritual growth and robs us of the joy and contentment God offers. Instead, let’s focus on God’s plan for our lives and cultivate contentment. May we embrace the race that God has marked out for us, remembering that we’ve all been wonderfully made by a loving God who has a special purpose for each of our lives.
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