Rēad to Read …Again
Daily Reading: II Corinthians 10-13
II Corinthians 10:12
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.
A large part of the last few chapters of II Corinthians is devoted to Paul’s defense of his apostleship and his ministry, especially to the church in Corinth. Others, no doubt, opposed him, accused him, belittled him, and tried to dissuade those in this church from being influenced by him. In his defense Paul makes a statement that if not careful would be passed over without much notice. Let’s consider it.
He, Paul, basically states that he stands alone in that he does not join those who compare themselves among themselves. As these words are being typed the mind goes to that instance among the twelve disciples when they debated who among them was the greatest. The Lord put a swift end to that dispute saying …If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all. Mark 9:35. Paul did not enter into such nonsense. He simply did his job as God called him to do.
One Christian comparing themselves to other Christians is not wise. Measuring themselves among themselves is not wise either. This is true in any sense.
Paul mentions that there are those who “commend” themselves. He did not compare himself to those that commended themselves. For in just a few verses the apostle states this truth, For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth. II Corinthians 10:18. Why then would he compare himself among those who commend themselves? That would not be wise.
Measuring ourselves by the measure that others achieve is not wise either. Let us say that a person with the gift of giving is the top giver in their church. That is their gift. A spiritual gift given to them by the Holy Spirit. Usually accompanying this gift is an abundance given to the one who gives. Meaning, in terms of money, they make a lot of money and give a lot of money. Would it be wise for a person who does not have the gift of giving to measure their giving to the one who is gifted in the area? No, a thousand times no. The same with any gift.
Measuring ourselves or comparing ourselves to others may produce at least two unwanted results. Discouragement and pride. Both can hinder any child of God. It is one thing to be encouraged by others, but taken too far that encouragement can turn into discouragement in not being able to “measure up.” After all, it is God that gives the increase. I Corinthians 3:7 So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.
Some bring forth a hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold (Matthew 13:8). Do the best you can and bring forth as much as you can, influence as many as you can, and leave the measurements to the Lord.
Dr. William T. Howe
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