When we don’t feel good about ourselves it is often the result of comparing ourselves with others. We pay attention to what others are doing, project what we think they expect of us, determine whether they are noticing and appreciating us, or not noticing us at all. We define what we think they are saying and the tone in which it is said. How confusing our thoughts become! Instead of God’s standards, we measure others by our own flawed worldly standards. This enables us to quickly get into the “victim mode” and from there, how easy it is to stumble into relapse.
We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise. (2 Corinthians 10:12 NIV)
We need to be aware of thoughts that accuse and condemn others. As soon as we begin to think them, we need to do a self-check and find out what is really going on in our own hearts. If we observe negative traits in others, we should pray for them and bless them and leave their negativity with them. We should not allow their problems to become our problems. We also need to be careful of a critical spirit and not point out other people’s failures or criticize their faults. Jesus gave us some good advice on this type of behaviour. We need to be forgiving towards others and help them when we see they are troubled. Accusation and condemnation will not glorify Christ. Carrying one another’s burdens will.
How can you think of saying to your friend, ‘Let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,’ when you can’t see past the log in your own eye? Hypocrite! First get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend’s eye. Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. (Matthew 7:4-5 NLT, Galatians 6:1-2 NIV) Prayer: Heavenly Father, Help me to see others and myself as You see us. You created each person as a unique individual, exquisitely designed for Your purpose. Thank You that I am fearfully and wonderfully made in Your image, as is each person I meet. Amen
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