Competition

Competition

When does competition become a bad thing?

God’s Response

The proud Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer: “I thank you, God, that I am not a sinner like everyone else, especially like that tax collector over there! For I never cheat, I don’t sin, I don’t commit adultery.” Luke 18:11

The disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Which of us is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?” . . . Then [Jesus] said, . . . “Anyone who becomes as humble as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven.” Matthew 18:1, 3-4

Competition can be a foothold for pride and jealousy because it leads you to compare yourself with others. Everyone has equal worth in God’s eyes; any time you begin to think of yourself as more important or better than others, your competitive spirit is taking you in the wrong direction. When humility fuels your competitive nature you give everything you have to service, not to self.

God’s Challenge

Follow the Lord’s rules for doing his work, just as an athlete either follows the rules or is disqualified and wins no prize. 2 Timothy 2:5