Great Advice From My Older Brother!

I was reminded this week of something my wise older brother told me as I entered the mission field in Ireland in 1971.  He had just returned from his mission to Canada, and we only saw each other for a couple of weeks between, but I remember that he told me, “Don’t compare yourself with other missionaries.  There will always be some that seem more successful, even when they don’t work as hard.  There will always be some that don’t follow the mission rules, but are still successful and even hold leadership positions. There will also be some that don’t learn as fast as you do, and others that are so much smarter than you that you can’t believe it!  There will be some that are crude, and some that are more spiritual than you will ever be.  If you compare yourself to others, you can make excuses for laziness, or get discouraged, or become prideful.  The only comparison you should make is comparing yourself against your very best!  That will help you to become what the Lord wants you to become in the mission field.”

I remember sharing this advice with some leader in the mission (can’t remember who), and he thought it was so good that it was published in the mission newsletter for the whole mission.  That’s how smart my big brother is!!  Then this past week I read on page 10 of Preach My Gospel, “Avoid comparing yourself to other missionaries and measuring the outward results of your efforts against theirs.”, and it reminded me what Randy told me 45 years ago.  He probably doesn’t even remember it, but it had a big impact on my mission and my life!  That’s what a good older brother can do!!  Thanks, Randy!