2 Corinthians 10:12: For we dare not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.
The Judaizers were great on measuring their ministry, because a religion of external activities is much easier to measure than one of internal transformation. The legalist can measure what he does and what he does not do, but the Lord is the only One who can see spiritual growth in a believer’s heart. Sometimes those who are growing the most feel like they are less than the least. In a sense, the Judaizers belonged to a “mutual admiration society” that set up its own standards and measured everybody by them. Of course, those inside the group were successful; those outside were failures. Paul was one of the outsiders, so he was considered a failure. 1
Personal Application
- Read Ephesians 4:12-13. What is the results of comparing our lives to Christ?
Godly Encouragement
- Speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ. –Ephesians 4:15
A Biblical Thought to Share with Others
Beware: to compare ourselves to others is a form of prideful flattery. – TWEET IT
A Prayer to Consider
Lord, conform me to You alone.
1. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
