Sign up for our free newsletter:

Have you ever felt just the least bit jealous of a friend? Maybe she's a fit-and-trim aerobics instructor, and you're having trouble with those last ten pounds you'd like to lose. Every time you see her in her leotards, you grimace inwardly and wish you looked like her. Or perhaps your single friend just got the job of her dreams, and you're a stay-at-home mom who's trapped in a tiny house with three kids for the summer. Or your friend who became a Christian three months ago is growing rapidly in her faith—and yours seems to be going nowhere.

It's easy to compare yourself (and your life) with others. But let's face it. No one person has everything (looks, talent, spiritual growth, and so on). In this passage, Mark sets the record straight. Instead of looking for what other people have, especially those friends who seem to have more than you do (a bigger house, better looks, a nicer family), remember that looks are just that—looks. Jesus says that, in the long run, "many who are first will be last, and the last first" (10:31). He also says that, in order to be great in God's kingdom, you must serve others (10:43).

That means that, instead of comparing yourself to others, you accept your talents, looks and financial status as gifts from God. Then you focus on loving your friends as Christ would. (See also Numbers 6:22-27; 1 Samuel 16:1-13.)

Good Words to Remember:
Whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant. Mark 10:43

Today's Challenge:
Are you satisfied with your life, or do you constantly compare yourself to others who are higher in earthly status?

Copyright © 2003 by the author or Christianity Today International/Christian Bible Studies.

Bible Studies to Help You Go Deeper