iRockYouth

There is nothing more American than competition. I take that back, there is nothing more human than competition. If you have brothers and/or sisters you understand this better than most people (side note: we are at our rawest form as children, as we grow up we learn to push down certain feelings and desires because we know they're inappropriate). I remember many of the things I would compete with my brothers over. One of the most frequent competitions was who would get the front seat. We all remember, and still use the phrase, "SHOTGUN" as we draw near to the car we're getting into.

What silly things did you compete over as a kid?

One of the funniest competitions I have been made aware of is Nathan's "Hot Dog Eating Championship." In my mind, when something as leisurely as eating is turned into a televised competition that is talked about by sports broadcasters I begin to think we might have gone too far. Unfortunately, this desire to compete does not fade away when it comes to other aspects of our lives. Our desire to be the best has invaded many more areas than we are aware of. This issue is a timeless one referenced in one of Jesus' main guys. Read John 21:20-22 or click on the link below to read it online... [John 21:20-22]

What does Peter's question reveal about his attitude? How does Jesus answer Him?

Competition doesn't seem like such a bad thing. Many people find it fun, and as a great way to bond with others. However, competition has an ugly side named: comparison. Because humans can be so obsessed with being the best we will logically fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to those we are "competing" against.

Who have you compared yourself to recently? Why that person?

Maybe you don't think comparing yourself to other people is a bad thing. Maybe you feel like every time you compare yourself you end up feeling better about who you are. Why? Because you think you win. However, the act of comparing ourselves to other people is the most subtle cancer to our relationship with God. Why? Because when we compare ourselves we are taking God's place in our lives.

Think about it: whose right is it to judge other people? God! Whose right is it to judge you; your looks, your personality, your quirks, your strengths, and your weaknesses? God! When we begin to put ourselves or other people down with our comparisons we are playing right into Satan's hands. And not only that! We are robbing ourselves of the ultimate joy: to let God delight in us. Read w/ me Zephaniah 3:17

The Lord your God is in your midst,

a mighty one who will save;

he will rejoice over you with gladness;

he will quiet you by his love;

he will exult over you with loud singing.

Did you see it? Do you see what God is doing for you? Question: when do you believe God is doing this? When do you believe He is not doing this? The answer: ALL THE TIME! You are a treasure of God's. However, we so often focus on what He's given others that we miss the rich blessings He has poured out onto us. God is saying something, can you hear Him? Here it is: "You are the best!" Please Read Isaiah 43:1-4 and meditate on this and Zephaniah 3:17 and know how much God loves you.

posted by Skylar # 10:08 AM

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