UNPACK This...Focusing on the One Who Came to Bring Us VictorySample

Comparing Offenses And Christmas Gifts

In the NFL, there are multiple ways to win and different approaches to the game. There are high-powered offenses that throw the ball all day and ground-and-pound teams that run the ball consistently.

Regardless of a team's approach, they must avoid the temptation to compare their offense, as focusing too much attention on another team can hinder them from maximizing their potential.

In our own lives, we often compare ourselves to others. We evaluate how we stack up and wonder if we'd rather have our lives look like someone else's.

We can quickly become envious of what someone else has or is doing and become ungrateful.

During the Christmas season, covetousness can significantly affect our hearts. We can get caught up in comparing what gifts we give or receive or what vacations and celebrations we and others have.

If we don't fight against these mindsets, we can become bitter and lose sight of the true meaning of Christmas.

James 1:17 reminds us to focus on God's goodness and the blessings He continuously pours on us: "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change."

When we look to the gift-giver rather than the gifts, we can avoid all the comparing and envying. We can't live someone else's life, so let's be grateful for the gifts and talents God has graciously given us for His glory.

He has equipped us differently to accomplish His will, so today, let's be encouraged by Romans 12:4-6: "For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them…"

I'm Bryce Johnson, and you can UNPACK that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I pray I won't dwell on what someone else has or does. Help me appreciate all You've given me in Jesus, not get caught up in comparing, and embrace my own calling. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.