Comparison and Competition in Ministry (an interview with Carla Sibley)

Author: North American Mission Board
Published: Mon 11 Sep 2023
Episode Link: https://www.namb.net/podcasts/ministry-wives-podcast/comparison-and-competition-in-ministry-an-interview-with-carla-sibley/

Sinful comparison and competition can creep quickly into our hearts when we aren’t focused on Jesus. It’s easy to look at what other women are doing (or even what our husband is doing) and begin to compare what is “lacking” in our own life and ministry. On today’s episode, pastor’s wife Carla Sibley explains how God has taught her to shut down the world and turn her eyes on Jesus, refusing to give a foothold to the division that comparison and competition create.

SHOW NOTES

Put on blinders towards the world, turn your eyes on Jesus, and ask Him to give you new eyes for your life.

There’s no comparison or competition in God’s eyes. He has specifically gifted you and placed you where He can use you.

Combat competition with transparency and by cheering other believers on in their ministries.

QUOTES

“What was purchased for me through Christ is so much more than anything earthly, anything temporary. So I don’t have to cling to those things I think I need or want, the accomplishments or the recognition. But sometimes we forget that we don’t have to have those things. So I just look to Jesus, spend more time in the Word, spend more time thinking about Him and listening to things that will draw my heart to Him.”

-Carla Sibley

“Make a decision. Do you want to be an instrument in the hand of the enemy for the destruction of the kingdom? Or do you want to be an instrument in the hand of God for the building up of His kingdom? It’s a decision we must make every single time the comparison thought pops in our head. Repent and turn from it continually. The more we exercise that muscle of gratitude and humility, the more we’ll be able to do this. It’ll come quicker each time.”

-Carla Sibley