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?

In my novel, The Healing Quilt, one of the characters was a workaholic and wanted to be on his boat all the time, which was how he made a living. All he thoughts about was his job and he didn’t spend much time to do things to relax and have fun with other people.

Do you or someone you know tend to work too much, neglecting your personal relationships in exchange for your job? What are some things we can do to curb the desire to work all the time? How can we find more time to spend with our family and friends and balance work with play?