Imitating the Incomparable
- Michelle Stepp
- Jul 21
- 3 min read
“There is one person we are to compare ourselves to: Christ.”
“Therefore, be imitators of God, as dearly loved children” Ephesians 5:1 (CSB)
Comparison is a dangerous game to play. When we compare ourselves to others we either end up viewing ourselves negatively because we do not measure up, or we become self-righteous and proud because we believe we are doing better than they are. Comparison robs us of the ability to be content in our identity and in our circumstances. Whenever we compare our lives to the life of another person, the result will be a lack of peace.
There is one person we are to compare ourselves to: Christ.
In Paul’s letter to Ephesus we hear him command the listeners to imitate God. In reality, this is an impossible call upon our lives if we try to live it out by our own strength. We will never measure up or compare to the perfect righteousness of Christ. It is only through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit that we are transformed into the likeness of Christ. Only by the grace of God will we ever look even remotely like him.
Notice that after Paul gives the command to be imitators of God he reminds us of our identity. What fuels our contentment and thankfulness for our lives is the knowledge of the truth that we are dearly loved children. Earlier in his letter Paul wrote, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10, CSB).
God created us to reflect his Son, Jesus. God did not create us to look like anyone else. Not your friend who looks like she has a perfect life. Not your neighbor with the meticulously kept yard. Not the person in your church who struggles with sins you never would commit. God wants you to look like Jesus.
May we be a thankful people who rest in our identity as children of God. Let us be thankful for the circumstances of our life God has carefully orchestrated for his glory. By the power of the Holy Spirit may we look more and more like Jesus every day. Praise be to our incomparable God.
This week memorize Ephesians 5:1. When comparison creeps into your mind, remind yourself of the truth of this week’s verse.
Faith Follow-Through:
This week, take some time to grow in motherhood and faith:
Tuesday:
For the rest of the week write down three things you are thankful for each day. Spend time in prayer at the end of the day thanking God for all he has done for you.
Wednesday:
Spend some time reflecting on how you tend to compare yourselves to others. Does it result in negative self talk or pride? Take these observations to the Lord and ask him for forgiveness, to change your heart, and to fix your eyes on Jesus.
Thursday:
Pray over each member of your family. Ask that their identity would be rooted in who God has made them to be and that they would resist the comparison trap. Thank God for each of them and their specific giftings.
Written by Michelle, mom of 1
