In my previously published novel, The Journey, a young man named Titus felt inferior to his twin brother, Timothy, and had since they were young boys. Timothy always seemed to know what he wanted and was able to do everything right. Titus, on the other hand, had made no specific plans for the future, and it seemed like nothing he did was ever good enough; especially compared to his brother’s achievements.

Children often compare themselves or try to compete with their siblings or a friend. Even as adults, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to others, which can lead to feelings of jealousy, resentment and self-doubt.

What can a parent do to help their children feel equally important within the family? How can we, as an adult, overcome feelings of inferiority and stop comparing ourselves to siblings, other relatives or friends?

Here are a few verses of Scripture that have spoken to me during times when I’ve been tempted to compare myself to others: II Corinthians 10:12 (KJV): For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with that commend themselves; but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.”

This is another Scripture I especially like: Colossians 3:23 (KJV): “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.” This verse reminds me that instead of comparing myself to others, everything I do should be done for the Lord, and not to look good in the eyes of other people.

Have you ever been caught in the middle of a storm, either on land or out in the water someplace? Were you frightened and hoping for the weather to calm so you could feel safe and have a sense of peace?

Sometimes the storms we encounter in everyday life can turn our world upside-down. Have your nerves ever felt frazzled and you hoped for calm but couldn’t seem to find a way to relax or let go of your fears?

The Bible has an answer for calming our fears. When I’ve been in the midst of chaos and feeling fearful and hopeless, reflecting on this verse has always calmed my fears and helped me to relax and feel hopeful: “Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10 (KJV). Another good verse that reminds me to remain calm is “Humble yourselves. . .under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time.: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” I Peter 5:6-7 (KJV)

Doubt is the opposite of faith and hope. When it seems that there’s nothing left, and fear abounds, there is hope for calm when we put our faith and trust in Jesus. Do you have any favorite verses of Scripture that have helped to calm your fears?

If ever there was a time that the world needs hope, it’s now. Some people become seriously depressed when they feel that there is no hope. When depression takes over and a person feels hopeless, some even turn to drugs, alcohol and other addictions. The truth is, without Christ, there is no hope. However, as a Christian, you can feel hopeful, even during the most unsettling times. We have hope because we have faith in a trustworthy God. He wants us to live each day with spiritual and emotional anticipation that a favorable outcome is in our future.

In my newly released devotional, The Prayer Jar: Hope, I mention that one of the most important things we can do to keep hope alive is to pray. If we want to draw closer to God then we need to reach out to Him in prayers of praise, petitions, intercessions, and thanks. Aren’t you glad that whenever we face trials in this life, God is with us and renews our strength and faith? Psalm 31:24(KJV) is a good reminder for us: “Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.”

Are you or someone you know in need of prayer today? Do you have a special prayer request you would like me and others to pray about? Please share it with us in the journal comment section.