I'm sure you've heard the phrase "Comparison is the thief of joy." This is a very popular phrase, and I have always thought this was a nice sounding phrase but haven't really thought anything of it.

In college I have learned that there are so many opportunities out there for me. There are so many things to get involved in that it is so easy to get stretched thin. In this way, I am reminded of my humanity. Jesus is definitely working in my life because I would not be here if He wasn't. But He is also doing a great work in other people's lives around me. It is so easy so say to God, "Why are You working so much in this person's life? Why is this not happening for me in my own life?"

Why do we compare what God is doing in our lives to what He is doing in other people's lives?

We should be rejoicing with these people and encouraging them! Now that Jesus has brought this to my attention, when I start to compare myself to others I pray for them. I pray that God will continue His good work in them, and that they will seek His face in everything. It is crazy awesome that He still loves us and works in us while working in every single life on this earth, even if they do not recognize it.

Instead of trying to constantly ask God for things in your own life, look for how He is working in others lives. This should encourage you because those are your brothers and sisters!

"I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."

Philippians 1:3-6