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 | By Cynthia Kaan

How do I keep up with the lifestyles of my friends?

Why does the grass seem greener in everyone else’s yard? How do I keep up – or not get caught up in the comparison?

1.    Matthew 6:24 tells us we cannot serve both God and money. We are called to be good stewards of what we are given. In Matthew 25:23, we are told of the importance of being faithful in small matters. Review those verses in the Bible and pray to find what God is asking of your life.

2.    True happiness is not of this earth. However, God delights in our happiness when we are living the life he calls us to. When we pursue that life and God’s will for us, we are able to focus on what we are given rather than what we do not have.

3.    Realize a lifestyle is an outward appearance. Just like looking at an iceberg, only a tiny fraction can be seen when viewing the surface. New clothes, new cars, big houses, and possessions do not tell the whole story. Happiness is not found in material things.

4.    Take a look at the tenth commandment: Thou shall not covet thy neighbor’s goods. Full stop.

Our purpose in life is to know, love and serve God. Fix your eyes on Christ and you will find contentment where he calls – regardless of where or how your friends live.