SUCCESS

"Therefore when the Lord knew that the Pharisees had heard that Jesus was making and baptizing more disciples than John . . . " (John 4:1).
Comparison leads to conflict.  Pastors and churches can quickly fall into the trap of determining their success by making comparison to other ministries.  Jesus avoided the trap by removing Himself from the situation.  We saw this in John 3:25-30 where John's disciples were concerned about Jesus' growing ministry while their own was declining in comparison. John's response was, "A man can receive nothing unless it has been given him from heaven" (John 3:27).  Good advice for us today when we are tempted to determine our value by looking around at others.  Our value comes from the Father--not by how much farther along we are than others--nor by how much farther behind we might be.

Today, remember that you are completely loved by God and that He values you as one His greatest passions.  No need to compare today--just enjoy your place in the Kingdom of God.