Just a Thought: Comparing myself to others does not make me look better in the eyes of God. People who are focused on a works-based salvation have to attempt to be “good enough” to earn God’s favor. While this cannot be done because no one is good (Rom. 3:10). And, we have all sinned and fallen short of the goal it takes to appease God’s judgment, no matter how good we think we are (Rom. 3:23, 6:23). But some would say, “Wait a minute, I am better than that guy or girl!” The correct theological and biblical response would be, “No you’re not.” In the end none of us is good, only God is good (Mk. 10:18). We may not be as bad as someone else. But no one is good. This was the same problem with some Jesus was teaching one day. They thought some tragedies had happened to some people because they were bad and they were good (or better). Jesus was teaching that misfortune, and death can happen to anyone. And, when tragedy happens, this is not necessarily a sign of the person(s) righteousness or unrighteousness. The bottom-line Jesus says is, anyone can die or suffer disaster and die. But everyone needs to repent of their sin and receive by faith God’s grace to live eternally. Let me let Him explain it. “Jesus answered, “Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered this way? I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish. Or those eighteen who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them — do you think they were more guilty than all the others living in Jerusalem? I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish.” (Lk 13:2-5). I have heard preachers and people insinuate that certain tragedies or natural disasters have been God’s judgment on people. When in reality they are more likely to just be results of living in a sin cursed world that is decaying. The wages of sins presence is death (to and for everything) (Rom. 6:23a). So, what is the right answer to these inquiries? First, understand, comparing myself to others does not make me look better in the eyes of God. Only God’s grace can do that. Second, realize we are all sinners in desperate need of God’s mercy and grace eternally and daily. Thank the Lord they are available daily! (Eph. 2:8-9, Lam. 3:22, 23). Third, as Jesus pointed out, unless we repent of our own sins we will perish just like any and everyone else who does not. None of us is good or better than the other. God will one day judge un-judged sin. So, let us turn from our sin and by faith trust in Jesus death, burial and resurrection where God has already judged and dealt with our sin and granted those who call upon the name of the Lord complete salvation (Rom. 6:23b, 10:13). My friend, if you want to look good in the eyes of the Lord you must be clothed in His righteousness not our own. Comparing yourself to others doesn’t help. Only coming to Jesus makes us righteous in the eyes of the Lord. Dear Lord, help me understand other people and other people’s sin are not my concern. My own sin is. You Lord will never ask me to account for someone else’s sin. But You will hold me accountable for my own. So, I acknowledge my sin today. And I chose to turn from my sin and trust in Jesus for my salvation. Thank You for Your complete forgiveness and new and eternal life that comes to me through Jesus. And I thank You Lord for Your mercy and grace that are new for me every day as I live for you. In Jesus name, amen.
