Last Thursday we investigated the danger of loving the praise of people and the need to learn the fear of the Lord. Today we look at the second of seven Biblical keys that we can apply to our lives to conquer the fear of rejection.
2. Stop Comparing Yourself with Others.
When we compare ourselves with those around us, we use them as the standard by which we measure our own abilities, appearances, and accomplishments. Unfortunately, by allowing others to validate us, we also give them the ability to invalidate us. Therefore, our entire self-worth is precariously balanced on the external approval of men rather than the internal approval of God. At a moment’s notice it can suddenly come crashing down.
Comparison with others will always bring a sense of inferiority, because we will always find someone who appears to be smarter, more attractive, or more talented than we are.
The chief problem with this comparison is that it overlooks the fact that God does not choose the biggest, best, and brightest, but rather the littlest, least, and last.
Paul points this out: “For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: That no flesh should glory in his presence” (I Corinthians 1:26–29).
Based on this vital truth Paul writes: “For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise” (II Corinthians 10:12).
Coming next Thursday morning . . . Key #3.
