Root of the Restless pt 4; THE CHRONIC CONDITION OF COMPARISON

Scripture References:

Matthew 20:1-16

HOW TO WALK FREE OF CULTURE'S PRESSURE TO ALWAYS COMPARE.

1- Comparison distorts your view of God. "Is your eye envious because I am generous?"... Comparison makes the generosity of God feel offensive instead of beautiful. The workers were angry that someone received something they didn't think they deserved. Comparison turned worship into murder (Cain and Abel), and be careful that you don’t allow it to do the same in your heart and mind at the expense of relationships and being a light in this world.

2- Comparison distorts your view of facts and view of self. THEY AGREED TO THE DENARIUS (vs 2). They were satisfied until they started looking sideways... and when you start looking sideways at everyone else, your life will get sideways quick. Comparison has a way of convincing you that your life isn't blessed, it's barren. We are trapped in a culture of people building personality while losing identity, everyone constantly hoping to get the blessing of someone else by sacrificing authenticity to become someone else. Whatever your belief for the work of the vineyard in God to become in your life know this: it will not be born of imitation, only a life of consecration.

3- The workers were given what was promised at the end... but instead of the ability to receive and rejoice in the wage, they grumbled and complained. Comparison strips gratitude and turns it to grievance. RELIGION SAYS I WORKED LONGER, BUT GRACE SAYS, I SERVE A GENEROUS MASTER. THE QUESTION BEHIND IT ALL: DO I TRUST IN GOD'S GOODNESS? DO I TRUST THE MASTER TO BE FAIR? MY MIND SCREAMS I'M WORTH MORE, HAVE DONE MORE, AND DESERVE MORE. DO I BELIEVE, AND REST, THAT HE IS GOOD, AND WILL BE GOOD, TO ME. Comparison is the symptom… but distrust is the disease.