Comparison That Spurs On Faith
BRD REFLECTION 2026
2 Corinthians 8:1-15 and Psalm 35:1-10 (NIV)
(David Blakely, Pastoral Team)
READ:
2 Corinthians 8:1-2, 8-9 (NIV)
[1] And now, brothers and sisters, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. [2] In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. [8] I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others. [9] For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.
OBSERVE:
In this passage, Paul highlighted to the church in Corinth the sacrificial giving that the church in Macedonia demonstrated. Paul is making a clear comparison as he reminded the church in Corinth of their previous offer of financial support.
Paul’s comparison is not meant to make the church in Corinth feel superior or inferior to the church in Macedonia.
Instead, Paul is encouraging the church in Corinth to see the opportunity to live out their faith by showing their Christlike love for those in need. He is reminding them of Christ’s sacrificial death for us which opened the way for our salvation.
APPLY:
It is instinctive for me to compare myself to others. At times, this comparison leads to doubting my competence and whether I am accepted. It brings back memories of rejection by people that left me feeling unworthy. At other times, this comparison feeds my arrogance. I see strength in myself that I do not see in others. And in that moment, I believe myself to be better than the other person.
This passage acknowledges comparisons are inevitable. The challenge is to make the comparison less about me and more about God. Less about my inferiority or superiority. And more about what God is convicting me in His grace to do in His service. I only need to discern God’s challenge and respond in obedience.
DO:
First, I will pause and acknowledge how often I sin by using comparison to strengthen my pride. Second, I will look at other people serving and ask God for the specific growth I need. Third, I plan to share the first two steps with one other person for accountability and support.
PRAY:
Lord, forgive me for how often I make life and circumstances about myself. I acknowledge my worth comes only from You, so I do not need to fear comparisons. Instead, help me Lord to hear clearly how You are challenging me to grow in Your grace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
