Grant Skeldon preached about how comparison and insecurity undermine unity and steal joy, using recent sports examples (Caitlin Clark) and biblical stories (Saul and David, Andrew, Jonathan) to show the cost. He argues that when we idolize our gifts, platform or reputation we subtly shift from serving God to serving our own status - a 'leadership lie' that expects God to raise our name as he raises His. Skeldon diagnoses comparison as a spiritual problem (a harmful spirit that hardens the heart) and uses metaphors like the game Kerplunk to show how we should put barriers between our flesh and God. Practically he calls believers to recognize God as the main character, become 'first-class noticers' of God's work, devote themselves to prayer and thankfulness (Colossians), and invite God to search their hearts for comparison.
“"They have ascribed to David ten thousands, and to me they have ascribed thousands... what more can he have but the kingdom" - the passage Skeldon uses to show how Saul couldn't celebrate David and how comparison hardens the heart.” · Grant Skeldon
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If comparison is stealing your joy, invite God to search your heart and point out motives. Practice spiritual disciplines that 'put pins in' the flesh (regular prayer, gratitude, vigilance) and actively celebrate others' successes as wins for the whole. Recenter your identity on Christ (He is the main character) rather than on gifts, status or platform.
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