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“Be content with what you have” (Hebrews 13:5, NIV).
Some people are too insecure to applaud the success or achievements of another, be it a co-worker, distant relative, sibling, spouse or even a child. They feel that they must have comparable success, so they won’t feel inferior. If they can indeed claim a similar personal achievement, then they are quick to mention it.
The truth is that someone will always have more success than you do, and someone will always have less. It takes daily, conscientious effort to fight discontentment and enjoy whatever level of success God has blessed you with.
We are continually bombarded by this message: “You lack something. Buy this, buy that!” Solomon said, “Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil” (Proverbs 15:16, NIV).
Moreover, Hebrews 13:5, NIV says, “Be content with what you have… God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you”‘.
If you find yourself feeling the need to compete when a compliment is given to another, immediately recognise and renounce the insecurity trying to ensnare you.
Reject this kind of behaviour by responding oppositely. Practise being secure enough to enjoy someone else’s achievements. You will have to ‘practise’ this, because there’s a good chance that you will not ‘feel’ secure initially. Just do it.
Allow your faith to dictate your behaviour. When you obey the Spirit and allow him to determine your actions, the flesh grows weaker and must ultimately submit to the control of the Spirit.
By Alfred Nyamekye
