Have you ever been caught in the comparison trap? Andy Stanley observes that in our culture, we do not just want to be smart, rich, and strong. We desire to be smart-er, rich-er and strong-er. So we feel great about a 95 on a test until we learn that another student earned a 100. The comparison trap can consume us if we are not careful.
Peter struggled with this. He has just been restored by Jesus to lead and feed his sheep. Christ has clearly forgiven him for three denials. This should have been the best day of Peter’s life. But he caught John in his peripheral vision and asked, “What about him?” For some time they had competed to be the greatest. Even after denial and restoration, Peter could not let it go. Jesus offered him wise advice: it is none of your business but follow me.
Contentment is finding deep satisfaction in what God has given to us. Mature contentment counteracts our endless envy of others. Whatever God does for or with others in the world, our work remains the same: we must follow Jesus. When we begin to walk closely with Jesus we will be liberated to celebrate the successes of others.
