Let's not compare our loads.

I'm trying to fully grasp the concept of Galatians 6:3-5...

"If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, for each one should carry his own load."


Seems like there is a difference between being a proud person (feeling better than others) and taking pride in the fact that you are doing exactly what God wants you to do, NOT as compared to anyone else. The second type of pride actually requires humility because we know that there is always more to learn and more to grow in. We may be well aware of the fact that at this point in life we may have not mastered patience like we would like, or be able to give or bless as much as we'd like. At least for a perfectionist like me, there is always something more that I haven't accomplished. But if I'm sure that I'm testing my actions and not just reading or thinking about God's Word, but actually walking out what He is teaching me, then I should take pride in that. I think my "load" represents whatever is my responsibility as far as my character and growth. That isn't something I should compare...it's my own to carry and to carry it well.