COMPETITION In the Gospels, it appears that Peter and John did a lot of competing with each other. Both came from families whose business was fishing. Both were part of the original twelve disciples, and along with James, both were members of the inner circle of three to whom Jesus would give special time, teachings, and experiences. When people have this much in common, they regularly become competitors. John had already established that he was the fastest one. He might have taken issue with Jesus saying that Simon’s new name would be Peter, which means “rock,” and that the church would be built on his testimony. But Peter, too, may have been annoyed that John was “the beloved one.” Jesus was aware of this “sibling” rivalry. When Peter pointed to John, wondering if he was going to be treated fairly and equally, Jesus said, “I’ll do whatever I want with him. Why do you care?!” All of us have unique challenges and unique blessings in our life. Some of us have a knack for numbers, others with sales. Some of us have great parents, and others have great wives. Some of us are very wealthy, and others are very healthy. We need to accept these God-given differences and make the most of what we have. Competing with other believers is as fruitless as a dog chasing his tail. We need to be satisfied with the life we have and run in the lane God has placed us in, not look at people in different lanes to tell us whether we are winning or not. They have their race and you have yours. PRAYER Lord, I’m thankful for the life You have given me. I’m sorry for allowing the lives of others to rob me of contentment. That won’t happen today. Amen. GET MOVING 1. Identify someone in your life who you tend to compete with or envy. 2. Look for an opportunity today to encourage that person to their face.