Saturday, February 28, 2009

The Comparison Trap

Well, this will reveal a lot about me, but as I read the duties assigned to the divisions of the tribe of Levi, I wondered if any jealousy developed. In case you missed it, let me remind you.

"The duties of the Kohathites at the Tabernacle will relate to the most sacred objects." Numbers 4:4

"These Gershonite clans will be responsible for general service and carrying loads". Numbers 4:24

Finally, the Merarite clan, "Their only duty at the Tabernacle will be to carry loads". Numbers 4:31

Is it just me, or do you see a progression here from most important to lesser important duties? Going from descriptions of "most sacred", to "general service" to "only" speaks volumes concerning what people value. I wonder if any of the Levites got caught up in the deadly comparison trap. Sadly, I am not immune to this snare.

We tend to compare appearance, position, children, husbands, marriages. We compare homes, possessions, University degrees and salaries. I think, being a twin, I've always struggled with comparisons. All my life there has been an identical person with whom to compare myself. It is a constant battle not to allow this bait of Satan to lure my mind to thoughts that lead me to insecurity and feelings of worthlessness.

The Lord has created us each uniquely. He has a role that only you can fill. We are fearfully and wonderfully made. Regardless if we feel our current position falls into the category of "most sacred", "general service" or "only", it is the one God has designed for us specifically. We need to carry out each request with the same passion and enthusiasm, regardless of its accompanying status.

If God has called you to any area of ministry, delight in serving Him.

post signature

3 comments:

elaine @ peace for the journey said...

Oh the blessed Merarites! To carry loads and nothing more. How could we all relate? Very good point here, Joy, one that I would miss had you not looked for me. I think you're onto something here with these reflections, friend. In another say, 9 months, you'll have a complete set. Hmmmm...

You know what I'm thinking...

peace~elaine

Kathy Schwanke said...

This reminds me of the "talk" I have given my boy about the football team...the quarterback gets most of the attention, and the high-fives, or now they do that jump up/body slam thing...but he couldn't do his job without all the other guys doing theirs. Success on a team relies heavily on those with the lesser tasks.

The janitor means so much to me when I go into a public facility after having gone to a jobsite my husband was on...with no janitor. I love those guys!

Lutiemom said...

Wow! I too would have missed this valuable point. Thanks so much for sharing.