“God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble” (James 4:6).

Kevin Myers and John Maxwell coined a phrase: “win within.”* 

It’s meant to help us think about what’s happening inside of us. When we live by faith at our very core, that will flow outward into our words, decisions and actions. If we want to win at life, we need to start by developing practises which help us “win within.” A hollow tree can’t produce healthy apples.

Spiritual practices like prayer, Bible reading, fasting, worship, silence, and proactive servanthood, help with this. But today let me suggest a specific area of focus when it comes to our character.

It’s pride versus humility.

If we want to win within, it’s important to check the pride and ego which always want to be first. 

I’m sorry to tell you but this is an issue for everyone (except Jesus). It’s a part of our sinful nature. Some people may struggle with it to different degrees, but it’s an ongoing battle for everyone, including me.

As you become aware of this struggle, a helpful phrase to use in your thoughts is “God first.” As you think about people or problems, and as you prepare to make decisions and then act on them, ask yourself: Is what I’m about to say or do reflective of a “God first” mentality, or of a “me first” mentality?

Jesus is Lord. He also called himself a servant (see Mark 10:45, Philippians 2:7, etc). What an example! The Lord himself came as a servant. If we think we always need to go first, be right, and be the best, we may need to re-evaluate who we’re following.

Let’s win within with a “God first” mentality. 

“God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”

Notes:

–*Kevin Myers and John C. Maxwell, Home Run: Learning God’s Game Plan for Life and Leadership (New York: Faith Words, 2014), 39.

–Bible quotes are from the NIV.