The Comparison Game

As mothers, it is easy to get caught up in the game of comparison.

We compare our own children to each other in casual conversations with friends at the park: "Oh, Bobby started walking at 9 months, but my youngest Sarah started walking at 15 months. He always seems to be ahead of where she is."

Or you hear mothers comparing their children to other children:

Mommy 1: My daughter knew her ABC's at 2.

Mommy 2: Yeah, my son isn't there yet.

Mommy 1: Oh, I'm sure he'll get there (said with a twinge of satisfaction).

I hear it all the time. And there is not a doubt in my mind that I've played into it from time to time. It gets the best of us. Ugh.

Not only do I compare my kids to other kids, but I compare myself to other mamas all the time. I start to feel like I should be doing more. That I am not enough. Been there before?

It's that comparison bug. Once it starts it spreads quickly and is quite contagious.

In those moments when I feel insecure and doubtful of myself, I hear this speaking to my heart:

I knew you before I formed you in your mother's womb...
Jeremiah 5:1

Then I am humbled by the fact that in God's eyes we are all equal. He doesn't compare me with my Martha-esque mommy friends. God isn't keeping score. He doesn't have a condemning "bad crafter" or "impatient" sign to put on my back. He isn't keeping a tally to see which kid poops on the potty first or memorizes multiplication facts first.

That's just stuff to God. He cares about our hearts.

Instead of complaining to God about all of insecurities, let us offer praise. Let us try to replace the negative self talk with praise. Praise for arms to hug our babes, legs to chase bubbles with littles, and ears to hear "I love you" throughout the day.

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
Psalm 139:14

Much love,
Katie