Together
In the book of Acts, there is a pattern of “togetherness.” For example, terminology such as: praying together, being together, holding everything in common, are phrases that are found all throughout the book from beginning to end.
When we read the mighty works in Acts it should propel us to get back to the original game plan. Clearly, one of the key components in the original game plan is this principle of “togetherness.” Your enemy wants you all alone. That’s why it’s been fought so hard. Maybe the spirit-world is far more aware of the power of the unified Church than we are. Consequently, the forces of darkness are continually strategizing ways to bring division.
The Trap
In his masterpiece, The Screwtape Letters, C.S. Lewis painted a powerful picture of how the enemy often works subtly and silently to wreak havoc in our lives. When it comes to the principle of life together, one of the advasary’s most effective weapons is the trap of comparison. We’ve all battled it but if we succumb to it, comparison will kill us.
Here are three things we lose when we give place to comparison:
1. Unity
“All the believers were united in heart and mind. And they felt that what they owned was not their own, so they shared everything they had.” Acts 4:32 NLT
Comparison is so deadly among believers because it breaks unity and puts us in isolation. Pastor Keith has powerfully said that, “The fullness of redemption is never fully realized outside of community.” The enemy wants to isolate you.
The fullness of redemption is never fully realized outside of community. @KeithNixTV
2. Synergy
“Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.” Ecclesiastes 4:9 NLT
By definition synergy is the interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations, substances, or other agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects. Comparison tells us that we should compete with those we are called to co-labor with. Don’t take the bait, it’s a lie!
Comparison tells us that we should compete with those we are called to co-labor with.
3. Identity
“But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light.” 1 Peter 2:9 NLT
When you start comparing yourself with others you start fighting to become what you see rather than who you were created to be. You were called to be unique and to stand out. Comparison will always make you a counterfeit, never an original.
Comparison will always make you a counterfeit, never an original.
Killing Comparison
The Church must kill comparison before comparison kills the Church. If you’ve fallen into the comparison trap, surrender to God, embrace His game-plan, and get in the Church. It’s time to unite!
