The secret to contentment is . . .
not comparing
not competing
not complaining. –Unknown

Comparison: the act or instance of comparing; the quality of being similar or equivalent.

Contentment: a state of happiness and satisfaction

This journey we travel isn’t always easy, there are paths to travel that are extremely tough. Each of us have different valleys we walk through and different scenarios we face, and if we dare be honest with ourselves, its easy to compare the journeys and be less content with where God has us.

Let’s take a look at several different scenarios that might move us compare our journey with our neighbors: •While in the valley, walking through a difficult season it is easy to look at others who have it “seemingly easier” in outward appearance, and think, if only my journey were that easy. • We hear an amazing testimony from a friend and suddenly our own testimony seems very insignificant because we didn’t experience what that person did. •Someone’s gift/talent is used to glorify the Father, they are walking in what the Father has called them to and because of you not having that particular gift or calling, you think you are pretty untalented or not as important.

The person you are comparing yourself to in Scenario 1, is not equipped to walk the journey you are currently on, only the Father holds the pen in your story and you are the One who must be obedient to walk in what He calls you. May He give you Grace abundantly to walk forth in your journey! But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift. Ephesians 4:7

The testimony you heard from Scenario 2 was one of tremendous breakthrough and healing, you rejoice, yet it left you wondering why your testimony couldn’t be more significant. My friend, your testimony is very significant, Jesus died on the cross for you! The testimony you heard that seemed so significant, I would dare to say, that person has walked some very dark, very painful and lonely times themselves, once again the Father holds the pen in their story as well. And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.
Revelation 12:11

Honestly, scenario 3 is a reality for most of us, but may I challenge you to walk in the calling and gifts the Father has given you, you are very important to the Father and He wants you to glorify him in what He gives you! “For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away.” Matthew 25:29

A spirit of calm contentment always accompanies true godliness. The deep peace that comes from deep trust in God’s lovingkindness is not destroyed even by the worst of circumstances, for those Everlasting Arms are still cradling us, we are always “under the Mercy.” -Elizabeth Elliott

May the Father give you Grace and Anointing for each season of your life. Rest in Him!!