And the women answered one another as they played, and said, Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands. — 1 Samuel 18:7
Have you ever tried to do your best at something, but it seemed like everyone was only focused on someone else? Maybe you were making something, but it seemed that the focus was on someone who made it better. Or perhaps you were completing a task and were reminded that someone else did it more quickly.
There are times these types of comparisons are made accidentally. The person did not necessarily mean to do it, but the comparison was made. Other times, it’s made on purpose. Maybe that person is trying to get you frustrated or upset. It can be easy to become frustrated when we have these things happen.
It is just as easy to become angry, as Saul did here. As we read, the women were singing and dancing, rejoicing in the victory and they made the comparison of David to Saul. Saul’s response was to become angry. He became jealous of David and the attention that David received for what he had done.
It can be easy to be jealous of others when they get the attention that you feel you deserve. It can be easy to become mad at the situation. But God wants us to be different. Being jealous and angry will cause strife in life. It can destroy relationships and friendships. Many times, it leaves the other person confused because the feelings are something that is only yours.
We should not be so focused on the attention of others that we forget it is God we serve. It does not matter if our actions are recognized by the people around us. What matters is that our actions are what God expects of our lives. The rest of the world may not see them, but God does. He is paying attention to everything we do.
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