Why is it that humans are so competitive? There is such a drive to win that is deeply rooted in our souls. I've been reminded of this as I've watched some of the Olympics this week. Ironically, the only part I've been able to watch so far was girls gymnastics and men's swimming, both in which USA won gold's for the night I watched them. Though this was super exciting to watch, especially with my new friends in my 20Somethings Bible Study, it really got us thinking. Why are we always rooting for those most likely to win? Why don't we start rooting for the underdogs?
Now, granted, nationalism in the strongest sense emerges when worldwide events such as the Olympics come around. But when you think about how many golds countries such as the USA and China have won over the years, you have to stop and think of why that is. Are these two countries not two of the richest countries in the entire world? Aren't they at an advantage to less wealthy opposition? Training at such a professional level costs a fortune. As I bring these questions about, I am not intending to say that I do not support my own country (USA). However, it is something to think about as we watch events such as the Olympics.
There was another thing that bothered me as I watched the Olympics a couple nights ago. I was watching a swim event in which Michael Phelps got a Silver. When the camera zoomed in on his face after he found he just barely missed winning the Gold for the umpteenth time, all he showed was a look of pure disappointment. However, the man who won Gold (who, if I'm recalling correctly, was from Australia), was jumping up in down in the water in excitement because he had never won a Gold in the Olympics before. Phelps' reaction really bothered me. How could someone with so many Gold medals really be so bothered by winning one Silver? Not only that, but the fact that he even won a Silver in the OLYMPICS is absolutely incredible! I just wish he would have found joy still placing second in such a competitive Olympic sport.
Philippians 2:3-4 says:
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
I think the Olympics can get to some of our heads sometimes. Athletes are competing to be the best in the world. But when they lose, many can't humbly accept that they have been bumped off of the pedestal. Even audience members or supporters tend to get really upset when their home country doesn't win. This verse is the reason why I disagreed with Michael Phelps' reaction to getting 2nd place.
As I reflect further on these thoughts about the Olympics, it reminds me of Hebrews 12:1-3:
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Let's face it, Olympic athletes are hard workers. They train hours upon hours a day, and must discipline themselves with their time consummation, their eating habits, and always training at 110%. In this sense, I think we could all take a lesson from them in the way we pursue fulfilling the Great Commission for Christ. Yes, there will be obstacles. Yes, there will be opposition. Yes, their will be pain. And yes, we may not always win in the eyes of the world. However, Christ doesn't care about what the world deems is worthy of a "Gold." He looks at our hearts. Are they fixed on ourselves, or on humbly serving others? Are they striving to know Christ on a deeper and more personal level every single minute of every single day? Are they loving others as Christ loves us? If we start focusing on exalting the Almighty God rather than ourselves, we will win a Gold every single time.
For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? Indeed, you are our glory and joy. (1 Thessalonians 2:19-20)
Yes, the Olympics. All that competition does tend to make us forget to consider others. Thanks for the reminder to be humble and to pursue.
ReplyDeleteI think I disagree with your assessment of Phelps. In that instant I perceived disappointment with himself. Imagine your feelings if you knew you could do better (train better, more rest, etc) but you failed yourself. Athletes are constantly worrying about all of these variables. Shortly after he congratulated the other swimmer and seemed to be smiling when he received his silver medal. I don't think we can comprehend the stress these athletes are under and to judge his reaction based on your perceptions seems unfair. A lot of other swimmers have been vocal and easily understood in his/her vanity and arrogance....Phelps in my opinion has been nothing but humble in spite of his incredible success. Also do you think competition is truly rooted in our souls? I think there is a cultural phenomenon? Many tribal cultures do not have the same sense of competition that we do. Just my opinion.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the comments David, I appreciate them! I can see where you're coming from, and you may be right about Phelps. I may have gotten caught up in his immediate reaction instead of looking at the bigger picture. Thanks for pointing that out! I would also agree that I incorrectly worded what I was trying to get across when I said that competition is rooted deep in our souls. I think that, in essence, there is some sense of competition in each of us (some more than others); we all have the some sort of instinct of survival and to come out on top in order to survive. However, I can agree that culture is one of the biggest influences upon this competitiveness, especially in the USA where the "American Dream" is so heavily advertised. So yes, I think every single person has some part of them that is naturally competitive, however cultural influences definitely have a heavy impact on just how competitive and individual can be.
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