Gratitude: The Best Antidote for Comparison

When I first started this blog, I believed that fear is the thief of joy. While I still believe that’s true, there’s an even greater threat to joy that’s more within our control: comparison.

We compare ourselves to others daily. That person on Instagram who has a more exciting life than me, this coworker who doesn’t work as hard as me, my friend who seems to spend more time with her neighbor than with me, the list goes on…

Most of us know by now that social media “doom scrolling” easily sucks the life out of us. However, we justify certain types of comparison, though all comparison is a joy stealer.

Have you ever tried to be more grateful by thinking, “Well, at least I’m not in ____ situation like ____ type of people who have less than me. I should feel blessed.”

I’d argue that this kind of comparison is even more toxic than FOMO (fear of missing out) or jealousy. It gives into a kind of narcissism that is widely accepted. It makes us believe that our way of living and our outlook is the only way to be happy. There’s always a level of guilt that comes with this line of thinking and it minimizes the experiences you’re currently facing. Most of all, it stems from our pride, allowing us to believe that the reason we should be grateful is because of material gain or our own status.

However, gratitude is the best antidote for comparison. When we remember how incredible it is that we get to have a relationship with God, and then reflect on all that He has done for us and who He has put in our lives, we are less distracted by what everyone else is doing. It allows us to reach deep within our souls and feel refreshed with joy for the one thing unchanging in our lives: God’s love.

As we head into this wonderful season of gratitude, here are a few reflection questions to think about and/or journal:

1. What are at least five blessings since last year at this time?
2. Who is one person in your life you are really grateful for? (If inspired, reach out and tell them!)
3. How have you experienced God’s faithfulness this past year?
4. How would you like to grow in your relationship with God this upcoming year?
5. What in your daily routine causes you to feel drained? (Perhaps it’s social media, certain shows or news sources, or conversations with an unhealthy person) Is it possible to take a break from it?
6. Finally, what characteristic of God are you most grateful for and why?

I am so thankful for your presence in the Will to Wake Up community! I pray that this is a season of reflection and a reminder of how much God loves you.

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Do not quench the Spirit.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-19