Have you ever celebrated someone outwardly but felt the sting of comparison inside?
A few years ago, I reconnected online with two ladies I used to know growing up. We were neighbours once, and because I was a few years older, I often looked after them when we went out.
Fast forward many years, I found their social media accounts. They had become influencers in their various spheres: with large followings, husbands, children, and seemingly beautiful lives.
At first, I was genuinely excited to see them doing well. But then, as I scrolled through post after post of career successes, picture-perfect families, and curated wardrobes, the whispers started.
I didn’t realize it immediately, but I had begun comparing. Their progress made me look at my own life differently, and suddenly my joy dimmed.
When I noticed what was happening, I unfollowed them, not out of malice, but because I needed to guard my heart. And more importantly, I took that battle to God.
The Heart Work
Over the last 2 years, I’ve seen God shift my heart. I’ve learned that if I measure my life by the world’s indices: the job, the marriage, the children, the platform, I will always feel “behind.” But when I anchor my worth in the center of God’s will for me, I can celebrate others without feeling diminished.
That’s the secret: knowing you are where God wants you to be. That’s where you find focus, confidence, and intimacy with Him. When you are rooted in His call, it’s harder to covet another’s journey.
And when the devil whispers lies — “Look how far ahead she is. Look at what you don’t have.” — we must answer with God’s truth:
The Bible reminds us that:
“For the Lord God is a sun and shield; The Lord will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.”
Psalm 84:11
“The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy, O Lord, endures forever; Do not forsake the works of Your hands.”
Psalm 138:8
“I say this as a concession, not as a command. 7 I wish that all of you were as I am. But each of you has your own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that.”
1 Corinthians 7: 6-7
“The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.”
John 10:10
The above scriptures are not just nice sounding platitudes but weapons against the wiles of the enemy. Declare them over yourself and use them as reminders of God’s bountiful goodness.
Freedom From Envy
Today, I can scroll through their posts without feeling jealous, behind, or craving their popularity. Instead, I bless God for their journey, because I know mine is still unfolding and He is doing a great work in and through me.
For any woman in her 30s or 40s who feels guilty for battling jealousy or envy, I want you to know this: don’t hide it in shame. Acknowledge it. Bring it into the light before God. Know you are not alone. But don’t let it fester. Let Him heal your heart and teach you how to rejoice in others without losing your joy.
Let Your Faith Resonate
Envy says, “Her blessing takes something away from me.”
But faith says, “Her blessing is proof that God is still in the neighborhood, and He hasn’t forgotten me.”
Let your faith be louder than any lies thrown at you.
Leave a Reply