You Are Made for This: 14 Devotions to Uplift & Encourage Busy MomsSample

The Comparison Game

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. PHILIPPIANS 4:8

Often, we can be the hardest on ourselves. We all have some degree of mom guilt, with the “she’s a better mom than I am” negative self-talk. But, Mama, you are worthy. Remember the words of Philippians 4:8, and instead of letting the negative self-talk creep in, fill your mind instead with positive self-talk, replacing the negative with the good. Instead of comparing your child’s birthday party to a “Pinterest-perfect party” and feeling unworthy, replace that thought with praise to God for being able to host a party that your child enjoys. Instead of comparing yourself to strangers on the internet (and their highlight reels on social media), know that they are just highlights, not real life. Behind every social media account’s perfectly styled kitchen, kid’s art project, and more, there’s often a mess behind the camera (guilty here!). We need to stop the comparison game because it only makes us feel terrible inside. Instead, we can take those beautifully curated photos as inspiration for our own homes or parties but not as an attainable lifestyle. Our comparison even goes off social media to real life—as we look at the other moms in our kids’ classes and more. We need to realize that God has placed each of us right where we need to be. We can’t all be homeroom moms or even dressed perfectly each day. Just as we compare ourselves to others, our children are probably doing the same or will someday too. Stop this negativity at the source and help them (and yourself!) realize that God made each of us unique, just as we are. Let’s replace the negative thoughts with grace and thankfulness.

Made for This!

This week, try to catch yourself when you see another person’s photo, video, or social media post that makes you compare yourself or your home or situation to theirs. How does such a comparison make you feel? Can you take out the jealousy and replace it with pure thoughts? Maybe you can enjoy that image or idea without comparing it to your situation, putting yourself in a negative light. If any negative or jealous thoughts creep in, practice replacing them with something worthy of praise, something pure, or something lovely instead—like inspiration for your next party or a new recipe to try!