READ: EPHESIANS 1:3-14; HEBREWS 13:5; 1 PETER 1:3-9; 5:7

Whoa…I want to live in a house like that. Whoa…I want a life like that. I want a family like that. I want to look like that. I want…

Do you ever find yourself comparing your life to someone else’s? I know I spend a lot of time on social media, just dreaming of what life would be like if I could switch places with one person I follow. She seems to have it all together, and she seems to be content.

But is she content because of everything she has…or because of her faith in God and the contentment He offers? Is she even content, or does she just look that way on social media?

We compare ourselves to others all the time, and we quickly notice that we have less than some people do. We might start to feel like we haven’t been blessed like they have. We can easily find ourselves wanting more out of our lives—simply because we’ve seen others who seem to have things we don’t. This is called coveting.

And God wants so much more for us than comparison and coveting. Jesus has come to give us life in abundance—and through His death and resurrection He has already poured out every blessing on us! So, what can we do when we realize we’re envious of someone else? We can turn to Jesus, remembering that He doesn’t play favorites, and He isn’t holding out on us. We can stop coveting as we rest in Jesus, thanking Him for what He’s given us. In this broken world, we won’t have perfect lives. But, no matter what, we are blessed because Jesus has made us part of His kingdom and given us an inheritance that will never be shaken. • Emily Acker

• In what ways do you tend to compare yourself to other people?

• What are some of the good things God has given you? What are some ways He has met your needs or brought you enjoyment? Consider taking a moment to thank Him for this! (James 1:17)

• God cares about all our needs, and one of the ways He provides for His people, is through His people. If you or someone you know doesn’t have what you need, who is a trusted adult you could talk to about this today?

• If you want to dig deeper, read Exodus 20:17; Psalm 131:2; Matthew 6:25-34; 28:20; John 10:10; Romans 2:11; 8:32; 12:13; Philippians 4:4-19; 1 Timothy 6:5-21; Hebrews 12:28.

A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones. Proverbs 14:30 (NIV)