Competition is fierce!
Consider the current state of the NBA playoffs. I haven’t watched many games but social media keeps me pretty updated on what’s going on. We affirm our teams while seeking to obliterate other’s confidence in their teams. It would be one thing if we limited it to attacking teams but fans also attack each other. Consider the shooting that took place during the Thunder vs Lakers series, the legendary Palace brawl featuring the Detroit Pistons and Indiana Pacers, or how you feel when that guy comes into your arena with the opposing team’s jersey on.
Even when we’re not supporting our teams we can suffer from competition-itis.
Especially pastors!
Today I had a chance to sit down (virtually at least) with a few pastors I knew via Google Hangouts. I’m headed to pastor in Bowling Green, Kentucky and wanted to get some advice from a few seasoned preachers. They shared with me ideas, resources, and insight that would never come from a seminary class or a best practices book.
One of things that came up in our conversation was how rarely some pastors sit down and chat with each other.
The competition is too fierce.
Pride is too thick.
Sharing is out of the question.
I saw this at the seminary. Some people were so guarded. They never talked about where they preached on weekends, what workshops they were attending, or a good book with ministry ideas.
Maybe some individuals felt that if they shared then they would lose what they had going for themselves. I believe there’s always enough to go around so I shared as much as I had. People shared with me in return and we were both helped as a result. It’s funny how we’re reminded constantly to share in kindergarten but forget the concept in later years.
Who do you think you’re competing with? Is it another teacher in your school? Another musician with more hits on YouTube? Maybe another pastor in your area or another motivational speaker with a book?
Take a chance and meet them for lunch, schedule a Skype chat, or better yet a Google Hangout. You might find that you can learn so much more from each other than you could on your own.
I have even experienced this. Pastors come ask me, “Why are you filming ____” instead of me. I know we are all human, but really? Anyway, I feel you will do just fine because you are wise enough to ask for help. Keep going and blogging, I am supporting and praying for you. I have never been to Kentucky, now I may have a reason to visit in 2012 and beyond.
Definitely looking to do collaboration in some of the projects that I will work on in the future. Funny how this is becoming common place in the NBA. Team up so we can win championships!
@chipdizard I’m definitely looking to do collaboration in some of the projects that I will work on in the future with other pastors, speakers, and teachers. Funny how this is becoming common place in the NBA. Team up so we can win championships! Anytime you want to come to Bowling Green let me know!
Good blog and looking forward to your ministry in KY. Competion can be good if it’s a means of pushing excellence from each other, but I agree if it results in hoarding knowledge or becomes the main motivation, it has become a negative thing.
I agree if we’re pushing each other to be better competition and be a good thing but pushing each other to be better shouldn’t keep us from helping each other. Especially with resources and insight.
I agree if we’re pushing each other to be better competition and be a good thing but pushing each other to be better shouldn’t keep us from helping each other. Especially with resources and insight.
I agree that competition is healthy in achieving improvement, but I compete with myself. I like to help others and in so doing, it helps me. It keeps me grounded to my values of being a blessing to others. I hope you’ve benefited from our time at seminary. Please keep in touch.
I remember my first day back for the MDIV you told me that it was going to be tough but I would make it and here we are. Blessings on your DMin and keep encouraging others!