1 Timothy 6-9, “Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition.”
People of God, although the temptation to compare oneself with their neighbour has always been a trap of the devil, today the internet has broadened our comparison to a global scale. There is no limit to who we can compare ourselves to! Yesterday, society compared themselves to those in their neighbourhood; today we are able to compare ourselves to anyone we see online – despite them living in another country or being from another culture and background.
Comparing yourself to what people project is often pretentious and performative. They flaunt material things – but do they really own what they claim to possess? They seem to be flawless in appearance – but is it really unfiltered? It is so easy to fall into the trap of prioritising the pursuit of the treasures of this world. When you are busy thinking about what you do not have, you don’t value what you do have – leading to a life of depression, robbing you of contentment.
Live for purpose, not profit! Use social media to promote your faith, not to promote a fantasy! Use social media to encourage discipline, not delusion!
Always remember that nothing can satisfy you outside of God. No treasure can rescue a troubled heart. So prioritise living a life in the fear of the Lord. The most effective way to manage treasure is not to treasure it in your heart.
Prayer: Lord Jesus Christ, give me the inner grace to keep my heart steadfastly set on You alone. When the world tries to lure me into the trap of comparison, help me to be grateful for what is in my hands today. In Jesus’ name, amen.