UNPACK This... Rams Vs. PatriotsSample

Who Contributes More - Us or God?    

Once again, the Patriots are in the forefront of Super Bowl conversations around the “water cooler” as they add to their legendary status. Fans continue debating Tom Brady’s illustrious rank as the best NFL player ever and Bill Belichick’s elite title as the greatest coach in history.

Although intriguing to argue, ESPN.com raised a more fascinating question - “Tom Brady or Bill Belichick: Who Contributed More to Pats’ Dynasty?” The article provides pertinent points about their contributions to this epic dynasty, but the obvious answer is they’ve needed each other.

This got me thinking about another question many of us ask ourselves at times: “Who contributes more to our accomplishments – us or God?” Deep down, don’t we desire being acknowledged for our accomplishments? 

Of course, our intelligence, hard work, perseverance, and wise decisions are important in God’s plan, but we must be aware of getting caught up in ourselves and taking undue credit for what He’s done.

We somehow think we’re “self-made” or solely responsible for the amazing job we’ve done at work or raising our kids or using the talents we possess. However, we can’t forget God is the creator of the world and the sole reason we’re able to do anything at all.

When we buy the lie of self-sufficiency in pursuing success, we’re forgetting that God gives us the strength to persevere and the abilities to do what we do. Pride often results when we don’t recognize God as the Almighty, and foolishly try to take all of the praise for our contributions.

Paul puts things into perspective in 1 Corinthians 4:7 (NLT): “For what gives you the right to make such a judgment? What do you have that God hasn’t given you? And if everything you have is from God, why boast as though it were not a gift?”

God allows us to have great accomplishments on this earth but wants us to rely on Him and point to Him as our source and satisfaction. Today, let’s not forget how much we need Him and profess the words found in Psalm 115:1 (NLT), “Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to Your name goes all the glory for your unfailing love and faithfulness.”

I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, please humble me and show me Your glory. I am nothing apart from You. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.