Describe an early time in your life when you realized someone had something “more” than you or your family did? What about when someone had “less” than you did? What do you think prompts us to play the comparison game when we are young? What do you think keeps this game going as we get older? Read 2 Corinthians 10:12 together: “We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise.” What makes comparison unwise? Let’s get specific. In what areas of your life are you tempted to compare yourself with others? What do these areas have in common with each other, and what do you think the impact has been on your heart? Can you relate to comparing your real life to someone else’s highlight reel on social media? How does that make you feel? In the comparison game, some can make you feel “more than” and others make you feel “less than.” This feeling can cause you to treat others in ways that are unhelpful to both them and you. Read Philippians 2:3: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves…” What understanding about God, self, and others can help a person honor God and be helpful to themselves and others? When we compare ourselves with others, it is hard to be grateful for what we have. What do you think it will take for a person to start appreciating what they have? How would celebrating others’ success impact you and others? In 1 Corinthians 11:1 Paul writes, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” Paul has experienced the highest of highs and lowest of lows. What does Paul say is a key to help us live beyond the comparison game? A key aspect of the church is spiritual growth, and spiritual growth is a process. Every step counts. So, take courage: we can all start to grow from right where we are. What is one step you can take to deal with comparison this coming week (not just once, but a step you can seek to grow into)?