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The Competitive Edge

Steve Beckerle

SET:

Being competitive is a big part of sports. From Major League Baseball to junior high soccer, there’s a focus on standings, stats, and positioning. But it’s not a question of whether you are competitive; it’s about finding your passion.

God wove a competitive thread in us. We strive to do well and enjoy competition. Arguably the best basketball player that ever played in the NBA, Michael Jordan once said:

“The game of basketball has been everything to me. My place of refuge, place I've always gone where I needed comfort and peace. It's been the site of intense pain and the most intense feelings of joy and satisfaction. It's a relationship that has evolved over time, given me the greatest respect and love for the game.”

When I read about God creating us in His own image in Genesis, I think about how He made us to have a competitive, spirited love for Him. You can be great at any sport and not have passion for it, but when you are both great and passionate, there’s a difference! In the same way, it’s easy to see when someone’s chosen to live his or her life passionately and competitively for God! God calls us to love Him and live our lives completely for Him.

GO:

1. How is Michael Jordan’s quote comparable to your walk with God?

2. How can you live with a competitive and passionate belief in God?

WORKOUT:

Galatians 2:20

Proverbs 8:17

Romans 5:2–5

OVERTIME:

"Lord, please help me to live as someone who was made in Your image. Thank You for sending Your Son to be our Savior so we can look forward to living eternally with You in heaven. Amen."