Read: 2 Corinthians 10:12-18

We dare not class ourselves or
compare ourselves with those
who
commend themselves. -2 Corinthians 10:12

I remember that when I was in the 6th grade I used to look with admiration
and awe at high school football players. They were old enough to be heroes, and
as far as I was concerned they were the biggest, fastest, and toughest guys
around. But now I realize that it all depends on whose team you’re playing for.
Compared with the college or professional athletes of today, those fellows don’t
even rate.

Most things in life are like that. Whether we are healthy, muscular
attractive, or successful is relative. It all depends. With whom are we comparing
ourselves?

So, with whom are we measuring ourselves as Christians? According to the
apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 10, we make a big mistake if we try to feel good
about ourselves by comparing ourselves with the people around us (v.12). There’s
no future in that kind of thinking. You see, ultimately the value and meaning of
anything in life depends on how the Lord sees us. Paul wrote that it’s not the
one who commends himself who is approved, “but whom the Lord commends” (v.18).
It’s God’s judgment that really matters.

Paul was content to serve his Savior faithfully and leave any praise of his
life and work to God. Can the same by said of us? -Martin R. De Haan II

Just live your life before your Lord,
It matters not what others do –
Your actions will be weighed by Him
Who metes out judgment first and true.
-Roe

IF YOU MUST COMPARE YOURSELF WITH SOMEONE,
COMPARE YOURSELF WITH CHRIST.

OUR DAILY BREAD, Copyright 1999 by Radio Bible Class, Grand Rapids,Michigan.
Used by permission.