Ordinary Walks with an Extraordinary God

Lesson From The Trees: The Danger of Comparison

But let each one examine his own work, and then he will have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. For each one shall bear his own load. – Galatians 6:4-5

I often run the last stretch of my daily walk. This extra effort ensures that when I finish, I am pouring sweat and breathing harder than normal. I walk around in my driveway to catch my breath. One late summer day as I was doing this I looked up and noticed two trees in my yard that are just a few feet apart on the same side of my house. In theory, their conditions are basically the same.

That day, one tree was still as gloriously full and green as it was in June. While on the other one, you could count the remaining leaves. That tree is always the first to bloom and the first to lose its leaves.

I understand they are different types of trees. This is normal and expected. Year in and year out, the differences in those trees remind me of the dangers of comparing ourselves with other people.

God made us similar but different. We are not supposed to be on the exact same schedule as everyone else. That is normal and acceptable. We don't all get through life with the same skill sets, desires, gifts, bag of tools or pace. That’s okay because we’re not required to run anyone else’s race.

We grow and learn at different rates. What a boring world it would be if we were all the same and did everything at the same pace. Life is not a sprint to see who can do and accumulate the most. I have friends who have skills and strengths I don’t have. However, I have gifts they do not have.

Truthfully, we don't know God's purpose for everyone else. We are to obey Him and take care of ourselves. He made us exactly how He wanted us. Spending time focused on why we are different from someone else or why we appear to lack their skills is unproductive. It also reflects disrespect to God and us. We each have our own unique strengths and gifts. We're expected to use them accordingly.

Each spring that one tree blooms before all the others. It brings me hope proclaiming warmer, sunnier days are on the way. It's full of blooms before the buds are out on the other one. One is good for my boys to climb. The other is good for providing shade. Those trees are just feet apart but they're so different and both are needed for what they provide.

Friends, you, and the gifts you provide, are desperately needed. Just as you are. Let's stop getting distracted by comparison and focus on being the best version of ourselves. Let's rest when it's time and thrive when it's time. We all have value and purpose. We’re all needed.

Action: Make a list of some strengths and skills God gave you. Reflect on how you have already used them and can continue to use them for His glory.