Run Your Own Race

Dear Love B. Loved,

One of my good friends recently purchased a new car.  I drive an older model car.  Should I feel like I need to purchase a new car to stay on her level?

Behind the Times

Dear Behind the Times,

There is a social syndrome prevalent amongst Americans commonly known as “Keeping up with the Jones’”.  This way of thinking will cause you to compare your lifestyle to the lifestyle of your peers.  It will also make you believe that material things validate who you are as an individual.  As you and I both know – God has already validated us.  That being said, we don’t need material things to co-sign the validation.

Be happy for your friend.  Celebrate with her!  Perhaps this was the season for her to purchase a new car.

Should you purchase a new car to stay on her level?  If that is your only reason for purchasing a new car – you may want to do some self-evaluation to ensure that you’re not operating out of lust or envy.  There are several things to consider when making large purchases: (a) can you afford it (b) how will the purchase affect your family, and (c) is it absolutely necessary at this time?

In life, you have to run your own race.  It’s good to have great friends to run beside, but you don’t always know the story behind their glory.  Be thankful and content where you are.  Continue to run your race and know that your season is soon coming.

Later,

Love B. Loved