Comparison is the thief of joy. We hear it said often, but that doesn't mean it sinks in. Comparison is such a part of everyday life that it's extremely difficult to stop yourself from doing it. It's practically engrained in our subconscious to compare - we automatically do it without even realizing or thinking about it. It can be the simplest of things, such as, "I wish my hair looked as good in a messy bun as that girl's." But what appears to be a seemingly simple wish can actually be quite destructive.

By constantly comparing ourselves to everyone else, we are doing much more harm than good. Comparisons make you feel either superior or inferior, and as Christians we shouldn't be thinking less of others or even ourselves. When we are always wishing to look like someone else or have what someone else has, we're rejecting what God has given us.

This is a time of year where, for college students, it's easy to fall into the trap of comparison. Everyone is returning to their campuses, and students, particularly freshmen, will suddenly be surrounded by people their own age. No matter what people say, the popularity contests don't end in high school, so it's hard to fight the pressure to fit in or look a certain way.

So what is the solution? I started looking up verses on comparison in the Bible and found that it is referenced much more than I realized. For example, Galatians 6:4 says, "But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. For every man shall bear his own burden." By focusing on ways we can improve our character and not wasting time trying to be like others, we'll be more authentic and not imitations of the people around us.

Similarly, 2 Corinthians 10:12 states, "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." God is very clear here in saying that they who compare themselves to others are unwise. In doing this, we will only distract ourselves from trying to follow God and who He wants us to be.

Lastly, James 3:16 says, "For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work." In envying others, whether for their looks or possessions or friends, we only cause feelings of discontent and negativity. If we focus our eyes on God instead and on how we can better glorify Him, we'll be able to find peace in who we are.

Comparison can be deadly and destroy you from the inside out before you know it. By ignoring the impulse to compare and remembering the importance of God's creativity in designing each of us, we will become who He truly intends for us to be.