Shannon Popkin on the harmful effects of comparison.

I am joined by Shannon Popkin, author, speaker, and podcast host, in this episode. We dive deep and discuss the harmful effects of comparison and how it can hinder our ability to live a fulfilling life. In light of Shannon’s books, Comparison Girl, Lessons from Jesus on Me Free Living in a Measure Up World and the new book Comparison Girl for Teens, Thriving Beyond Measure in a World that Compares, we explore the idea that comparison is not a game, but a strategy used by the enemy to distract and destroy us. The conversation concludes with a discussion on shifting from a me-focused to a me-free mindset, where we focus on pouring ourselves out and lifting others up. We also discuss that our confidence and freedom flow from looking to Jesus and serving others rather than focusing on ourselves. This conversation is for you if you’ve ever compared yourself to anyone else.

Highlights and takeaways from the conversation:

• Comparison is a strategy used by the enemy to distract and destroy us.
• We fall into the comparison trap daily by hyper-focusing on ourselves and constantly measuring.
• Jesus teaches us that success and greatness in his kingdom differ from the world's standards.
• Shifting from a me-focused to a me-free mindset involves pouring ourselves out and lifting others up.
• When we realize that Christ has already proven everything we couldn't, we no longer have anything to prove.
• Comparison leads to a never-ending cycle of trying to measure up and seeking approval.
• Jesus offers a different way of living, where our confidence and freedom come from serving others and looking to Him.
• Paying attention to the messaging we listen to is crucial, as it can align with Jesus' words or the world's influence.
• Our rewards are not tied to results but to being faithful servants with what we have been entrusted.
• "Comparison is at the root of many of our insecurities."
• "Comparison is a strategy that our enemy uses against us."
• "Comparison holds me back from serving others."
• "And if someone makes fun of you or something doesn't go your way, it's like your skin is being ripped from you."
• "A danger that a lot of us in Christendom face is many of us have made self-loathing a virtue."

Enjoy this episode? Learn more about Shannon at her website. Email us at [email protected]. You can follow MercyCast on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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For more conversations like this one, check out my book, Vulnerable: Rethinking Human Trafficking.

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