Competitiveness
In my newsletter this week I would like to ask you a question- do you consider yourself a competitive person? If so, do you take things to an extreme that compromises your walk with Christ? Do people see you as someone who uses their competitiveness in a positive or negative way? Boundless.org states: “Clearly, competition has the potential to tempt us to prideful jealousy, self-sufficiency and anxiety, to name a few dangers. What’s so insidious about jealousy is that we’re tempted to envy those who are most like us.” Knowing this can you say that you fall into this category? Everyone has an opportunity to compete. How we go about doing it and how we respond to winning is all how we represent the kingdom. Believers should not boast or find themselves with a prideful heart. Instead, they should point their success to the cross and be humbled. Like Scriptures says in Colossians 3:23-24, we must work heartily for the Lord and not for man. Therefore, the disposition should clearly reflect a heart of Jesus instead of one who is arrogant and who has a huge ego. Though this is something that I personally have had to re-evaluate in the past, I ask that you take time to reflect on areas that you may need to readjust as well. As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, let us be grateful for the gifts and skills that God has given us and be mindful how and when we use them to bring him glory. Bouldless.com says- “So, we should wisely steward our God-given talents for His glory and the good of others. A competitive “marketplace,” under God’s sovereignty, drives us toward greater effectiveness in loving our neighbors by providing better goods and services with which to bless them. And when we love our neighbors in the name of Christ, we love God.” Will you take time to thank him in how He gifted you and ask him to change your heart to edify him as you use your talents, abilities and gifts?
If you’ve gotten anything at all out of following Christ, if his love has made any difference in your life, if being in a community of the Spirit means anything to you, if you have a heart, if you care—then do me a favor: Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends. Don’t push your way to the front; don’t sweet-talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don’t be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand.
Philippians 2:1-4 (The Message)
Chaplain Tracey Burns
Reflection Questions:
When you think about competition, do you find yourself being overconfident?
What area do you think you need to change when competing with others?
Do you give the glory to God when you win or do you boast?
Bonus: Great song (if you are interested) - Do you know your “Gifts from God” are given specifically to you?