Colossians 3:13 -Content with second place

Colossians 3:13 Bear with each other…

Colossians 3:13 (MSG) Be even-tempered, content with second place…

Observation

When studying Colossians 3:13 today I struggled with what it meant to bear with each other. My initial understanding was that it meant to "put up" with one another.  I didn't like this definition because it suggests a passive response to life.  However, as I read this verse out of the message bible I became enlightened on what it meant to bear with one another.

Being content with second place is a complete contradiction to the competitive world that we live in.  Do you ever feel like people are running beside you saying "look how fast I'm going."?  Maybe you are like me and your immediate response is to speed up. You feel a constant pressure to perform and do better. 

These feelings however, are not of God.  He doesn't call us to compete. I think we get confused and begin to believe that the prize of the upward calling is for those who run the fastest (Philippians 3:13-14).  However, the prize promised in scripture is for the overcomer, the one perseveres, the one who is diligent in seeking God. 

When I start running faster than I should be in order to compete with those around me I begin to lose margin. And soon my even-tempered attitude is replaced by reactionary anger and my peace replaced by strife and conflict.  My body begins to feel the pain of going faster than I have been equipped to go. 

Jesus is a great example for me what it means to be content with second place. The Darling of Heaven came to earth to give His life so that we might obtain eternal life through Him.  Jesus said "Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and give His life as a ransom for many" (Matthew 20:28).

Application

God promises to provide a way of escape so that you can endure the temptation of competition (1 Corinthians 10:13). Many times that way out is by renewal found in prayer and the transforming power of His word. But while God is strengthening my resistance in this area I am trying to separate myself from as much competition as possible.  This means I am very careful about what I watch on TV and the conversations I have with people.  Love does not brag, so the words of my mouth should be few about what I am doing and more about encouraging them.  This might seem drastic to some of you, but God's word say's to FLEE from evil desires (2 Timothy 2:22). I'm excited because I know when God sets my pace I find margin, contentment, and joy.

Prayer

JEHOVAH-GMOLAH, You have a great reward for those who diligently seek You. .  Help me to be steadfast instead of fast. I want to be a woman of action, not reaction. It is a delicate balance for sure my LORD, but Your Good Spirit within in me makes all things possible (Philippians 4:13). I desire to be content with second place, clothed in humility, compassion, and love in every situation. Quiet my heart so that I can hear Your word today. Lead me into green pastures and restore my soul (Psalm 23:1,3).  Guide me in paths of righteousness and renew a steadfast spirit within me.  Praise and glory be to You my King forever and ever.