Stoop To ConquerSample

Playing the Second Fiddle

Laban outsmarted Jacob several times, yet the promises of God spoken over his lineage helped him come out resilient and stronger (Gen 29-35)! Jacob’s self-sufficiency was chipped away when his understanding of God’s grace (unmerited favour) increased. Paul too recognised that the grace of God over his life made him rely less on his credentials, which seemed insignificant, almost a ‘loss’ in comparison to the ‘profit’ of knowing Christ and to be known by Him! (Phil 3:8-10)

I was affiliated as an independent consultant and speaker with a group that worked across Asia. One of the board members was a friend from an earlier job. After every conference, the clients would debrief and provide their feedback of us as a group. Though my sessions were rated positive, she became a bit irksome and prevented me from meeting the clients.

Though I was compensated for just the days I had sessions, unlike other speakers, I chose to attend the entire conference to understand the client’s needs. This further increased my ratings and the clients showed interest to work on bigger assignments with the team from which my friend tried to edge me out.

Yet unfazed by her attitude, I travelled for all the assignments. The person who commissioned the group asked me if I would like to be associated with them independently as he felt that the other speakers were too overpowering for the culturally sensitive region! He also mentioned that he observed that I was being side-lined and felt that I could handle the group more effectively.

I refused - saying that it may be an unethical jump. The client convinced the group in no uncertain terms that it was his preference. The group then insisted I take it up! I was compensated nearly 20 times more than what I was remunerated initially!

We need not shiver at the sight of malice and envy that seems to grip the greedy and ambitious! We can glide through all the over-smartness and shrewdness of men with the Lord on our side - His eye is on the sparrow and I know He watches me! (Mt 10:29-31)

Prayer 

Lord, it is all about You and Your goodness, not about me and my abilities. Amen