We live in a culture of constant comparison. Who has the better job? Who has the better kids? Whose recipe is pinned more on Pinterest? And whose sunset looks better on Instagram? This endless comparison game can overflow to our spiritual lives. The problem is, when we compare our spiritual worth to others, we will always lose. Only when we view our lives through the lens of Christ will we truly be both humbled by what we need and satisfied by who we are. ~ Pastor Dave
Open: Have you ever compared yourself with someone else? Share your story. Did the comparison encourage or frustrate you? Why?
Read: Luke 18; Galatians 6:3-4; Titus 3:3-7
Discuss:
1. We live in a culture of constant comparison. In what ways do you see comparison serve as the driving motivation of our culture? How has social media affected comparison? In what ways have you been trapped by comparison?
2. Jesus shares a parable that gives a picture of spiritual comparison (Luke 18:9-14). Describe the differences between the Pharisee and tax collector. How is the focus of their comparisons vastly different?
3. List some ways we compare ourselves to others? Have you ever compared yourself spiritually to other people? What problems do spiritual comparisons create in the life of a believer? Why do you think Jesus comes down so hard on spiritual comparisons?
4. When we compare our lives with others, how will our contentment and joy be affected? How has your contentment and joy been affected by comparison in your life personally? Christ mentions the self-righteousness of the Pharisee and humility of the tax collector. What connection does comparison have with pride and humility?
5. The tax collector compared his life to God. Describe the term “mercy” in Luke 18:13. How are we better served comparing our lives to Jesus rather than other people? How does Jesus keep us both humbled by what we need and satisfied with who we are?
Pray: In a comparison heightened culture that is constantly pulling for your attention, pray that you would keep your eyes on who you are in Christ and what you have with Christ. Take a minute to thank God for who He is and what He has done in you and for you.
Memorize/Meditate: I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted. Luke 18:14
