Competition (Part 1)

We live in a very competitive society and thou there are good points to competition, it really doesn’t fit in the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. It is in HIS Kingdom that we learn to complete others rather than compete against others. I’ve been on both sides of this issue, having coached for 20 years and pastored for over 35 years. I’ve seen and enjoyed the rewards of competition, and I’ve felt the effects of competition in the ministry. As I grow in the Lord, I’m learning each day the importance of completing others in life rather than always competing.

This morning I’d like to share some Biblical insights about this word COMPETITION. There are three questions that I would like to submit to your thinking from a Biblical perspective. The first question will be covered in today’s devotional and the other two will follow on Wednesday and Thursday. First, what are the dangers of competition? In Numbers 12:1-2 it is recorded that Miriam and Aaron became critical of Moses, and they began to challenge leadership. The Bible says that the Lord heard them.

Competition disrupts not only your relationship with others, but also your relationship with God. Miriam and Aaron, who were also leaders during the exodus, were jealous of their brother Moses and were competing for the attention and recognition Moses received. But their competition would bring them under God’s judgment.

True leadership is about celebrating each other’s success, and the success of the organization, company or church. As an example, how many times have you seen families truly celebrate each other’s accomplishments, verses how many times have you seen families breakup over the lack of celebration of accomplishments or achievements? WHERE YOU SEE A STEADY DIET OF COMPETITION YOU WILL SEE ENVY, STRIFE AND JEALOUSY. Write this statement down, and observe!

COMPETITION IS FUELED BY PRIDE, WHEREAS THE COMMITMENT TO COMPLETE EACH OTHER IS FUELED BY HUMILITY. Let me encourage you to compete where competition is in order, but at all times if you are a member of HIS FAMILY endeavor to COMPLETE others by building them up.

Today is a great opportunity for CELEBRATING OTHERS BEFORE PUSHING YOUR PERSONAL AGENDA. May the Lord Jesus assist each one of us to build HIS KINGDOM. Remember, HE is our role model.