Rivalry in Relationships

“Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Philippians 2:3-4 (E.S.V)

Do you conduct your relationships like competitions where you thirst for personal triumphs against others? Unhealthy competition and negative criticism ruin many relationships. You are in it together, no one can win alone because then the relationship is lost. It is selfishness and pride which leads people to always want to appear strong and superior in a relationship. Some people are not ready to accept their faults and make amends, offer an apology or show gratitude since they think it makes them look weak.

When you are in a relationship, the need of each person matters and it is your duty to be thoughtful, kind, loving and giving to others. People should strive to connect and celebrate their differences.

In Christ, pride has no place; only humility and the love of God which bids us look to both our interests and those of others.

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Oh, the comfort - the inexpressible comfort of feeling safe with a person - having neither to weigh thoughts nor measure words, but pouring them all right out, just as they are, chaff and grain together; certain that a faithful hand will take and sift them, keep what is worth keeping, and then with the breath of kindness blow the rest away.~Dinah Craik

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