Topic: Dangers of Comparison [Sunday February 22, 2015]
“For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.”- 2 Corinthians 10:12
Years ago, I heard a story of a sister who killed her twin brother on the eve of the day he was suppose to travel abroad. He had clearly had a major breakthrough in his career, and she was not happy about it. Unknown to him, their competition started long ago and this time, she felt that she could not afford to lose! She had conceived this thought for so many years and that day in her mind, was the perfect time to execute it. It was a culmination of many years of favouritism but how exactly did this start?, you may ask.
The said sister grew up “knowing” that her brother was better than her. When I mean better, I mean in every aspect. He was the best at school, quick to deliver when sent on errands, very respectful, and full of life. The parents did not hesitate to rub it in her face, how much more preferred her brother was. So, she began to resent him. This resentment grew to strong hatred, when she began to accept that she would never become anything like her brother, no matter how hard she tried.
Career wise, he was doing great and she, just struggling. So, on that fateful day, she decided to end it all. End the frustration, competition and hatred she felt. Clearly what she did was wrong, but this had a root in her upbringing. Her parents had shown favouritism to her brother and never realized that by doing so, they told her she was not worth it.
She would never be as good, as smart, or as successful. They tarnished her worth before she even had the chance to build it up on her own. Note that the major aim of this is not to shift blame, take sides with her, or validate her actions, but to show you clearly one of the ill effects of having a favourite and showing it; to the disadvantage of other siblings.
While this is an extreme case, favouritism has brought about low self esteem, unhealthy competition, and even rivalries among siblings. As you start your day, examine how you have handled your children. Is there any way you might be favouring one above the others? Seek to amend that today and it will save yours and their futures. Every child has the capacity to be great, but it begins with you.
Remain Blessed!
Pastor Faith Abiola Oyedepo is the wife of Bishop David Oyedepo, the founder of the Living Faith Church Worldwide a.k.a. Winners’ Chapel, and Senior Pastor of Faith Tabernacle, Canaanland, Ota, Nigeria.
Click HERE to read other Daily Devotional written by Pastor Faith Oyedepo
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