"Everyone should look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. Make your own attitude that of Christ Jesus." –Philippians 2:4-5
At the end of the movie The Greatest Game Ever Played, there is a scene that depicts what winning is all about. Based on a true story, 20-year-old golfer Francis Ouimet wins the 1913 U.S. Open with a fifth-grade caddie named Eddie. After accomplishing this unthinkable feat by sinking a playoff-winning putt on the 18th hole, Francis yells, “We did it!” Francis played the round of his life, but understood that he won with the help and encouragement of Eddie. This scene captured my heart and I was convicted. I’m embarrassed to say I would have yelled, “I did it!”
From this movie I was reminded that we is more powerful than me. Yet in sports, winning is usually all about me. God wants us to take up our cross daily and follow Him. We must die to self. Those are tough words. To be crucified daily means to empty ourselves and not look after our own interests only, but of others. We need to realize that competing is not about us, but about Christ within us. Dying to self, on and off the field, is a daily battle.
Imagine being on a team that has a “we” instead of “me” focus, with players who say, “We did it!” God can best use us when we sacrifice our own interests. We need to be reminded that together we win. So what will it be for you? We or me?
1. If you sank a playoff-winning putt, what would you say?
2. When you have success, do you use “we” or “me”?
3. How can Christ help you sacrifice your own interests?
Matthew 20:25-28; John 13:14; 1 Peter 2:21
Father, I admit I talk too much about my own accomplishments. I want to use “we” in my speech more than “me.” Help me to focus on others, not on myself. Thank You. Amen.