Should Christians avoid competition? - Competition - TouchPoints

1 Kings 12:8-11Rehoboam rejected the advice of the older men and instead asked the opinion of the young men. . . . The young men replied, “This is what you should tell those complainers who want a lighter burden: ‘My little finger is thicker than my father’s waist! Yes, my father laid heavy burdens on you, but I’m going to make them even heavier!’”

Misplaced pride and competitiveness can lead to reckless decisions that destroy families and more. In a bid to compete with the reputation of his father, Solomon, Rehoboam boasted of his mighty leadership. The people soon found another leader and the kingdom was torn in two!

1 Corinthians 9:24, 27Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win! . . . I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified.

Properly focused competitive drives can produce great results. Competition can be positive if you use it to drive you to be a stronger believer and better servant of Christ. But let that competition not be against others, which can lead to pride. Instead, compete against yourself and the standards to which God is calling you.

1 Corinthians 15:10-11Whatever I am now, it is all because God poured out his special favor on me—and not without results. For I have worked harder than any of the other apostles; yet it was not I but God who was working through me by his grace.

Paul had a definite competitive streak, but he sought always to glorify his Lord rather than to assert his own superiority. Work hard. Serve well, Honor God in all things.