It is human nature to compare ourselves with others.

Whether it is with our friends, our family, or even people who we see on the internet.

Some may argue that comparison is good because it allows us to see our weaknesses and motivates us to improve ourselves. However, oftentimes comparison stems from our own pride and can lead us to feel discontented, resentful towards others and towards God.

We can learn the difference between good and bad comparisons through the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector in Luke 18:9-14. In the parable, we can look into the comparisons each character made.

Bad Comparison

The Pharisee compared himself to the tax collector.

He measured his good works against the tax collector’s lack of such. And he really did do many good works! Not many of us are able to fast twice a week on our own accord.

But because of this he grew to be self-righteous and despised others (Luke 18:11).

Good Comparison

On the other hand, the tax collector compared himself to God. Just as how even the smallest speck of dust is revealed when put under light, measuring himself against the standard of God highlighted his many sins.

But because of this he was humble and sincerely repented for his sins (Luke 18:13).

How We Ought To Compare

We should not compare ourselves with others. When we compare ourselves with others, our underlying intention is that we hope to feel better about ourselves. Exalting ourselves above others. To which Jesus actually notes in Matthew 23:12, that our comparing has the adverse effect of lowering ourselves for “Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled”.

Paul also reminds that such comparisons are unwise (2 Corinthians 10:12).

Our comparisons should be done against the standard of God. In doing so, it is like putting a white garment under bright light to examine whether it is spotless.

It may feel counter intuitive. Because such comparisons won’t bring out feelings of self-confidence or pride. Instead, just like the tax collector, we are likely to feel unworthy of God and disheartened when we realise the multitude of our sins.

This uncomfortable feeling is part of the process of being humbled. And how we react to that process will determine our growth as a Christian.

We can choose to lift our heads high and pat ourselves on the back saying that we have done many good works, more so than the average person.

Or we can bow our heads and cry out to God in remorse, asking for forgiveness.