I am sure most of us are familiar with Theodore Roosevelt’s famous words: “Comparison is the thief of joy”. Growing up, I heard this quote recited in countless sermons. The main idea always centered around being content with the blessings God has given us, for to be jealous of the blessings God has given others will only bring us sorrow.  

And to this, I can’t argue. Comparison really does steal my joy. Still, I have always battled the desire to compare myself to those around me. Even as a little girl. This innate desire in me to measure up, to be enough, bubbles not so deep beneath the surface of my skin. It sets my mind on a downward spiral of comparison to others. 

Am I smart enough like ______? 

Am I a fun mom like _______?  

Am I successful in my job like _______?

Down and down I go. Falling until I am no longer content with who I am. Until I am no longer enough.

I read Paul’s words to Timothy that there is great gain for us to pair godliness with contentment, and I know I must try to pull myself out of the ditch comparison left me in (1 Timothy 6:6). So I look to the heavens, to the Creator who made me to be me. I thank Jesus for His blood that covers all my imperfections. And I pull strength from the Spirit who helps me find all the contentment I need. 

I am enough. I am enough. I am enough.  

Comparison steals joy. It has often stolen mine, and perhaps it has stolen yours before too. But here’s the hope: We can choose to not compare ourselves to our neighbor. We can choose to stop the toxic thoughts before they have time to travel down into our hearts. We can choose to focus our eyes on our Creator and we can choose contentment instead. It takes hard work, but I am a living, breathing testament that it can be done! And, let me tell you, the Apostle Paul was right. There is great gain from being content in life, for it brings great joy!