Redefining Winning

Consider how much energy, time and resources go into building a winning team. It’s a central focus from youth teams to professional sports.

If a team is not winning, changes are made to position that team to be successful. Much of a team’s success is based on the effectiveness of the coaching staff. Its success is measured by the scoreboard for a single season, while worldly success is often measured by our achievements or accomplishments.

How did Jesus define success and winning? How did He demonstrate it and how can we follow?

Jesus knew His assignment and life purpose. He knew and perfectly followed God’s will, and He embraced His calling. He was laser-focused on putting God the Father first. Jesus never lost sight of His mission, willing to make great sacrifices, even when scorned and criticized.

He developed and inspired His team, coaching them in life, not just in the task at hand. He accepted them just as they were but believed in what they could become.

“And he said to them, ‘Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.’” – Matthew 4:19

He loved and served God and others. He focused His energy and attention on others, not Himself.

Success and winning in life isn't just about how much you have or what you've achieved – it’s about how you fulfill God’s purpose for your life and the impact you have on those around you for Christ.

From God’s standpoint, success means walking in His way. Deuteronomy 10:12 states it this way: “What does the Lord your God require from you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all His ways and love Him, and to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul?”

Winning in life is living, leading and loving like Jesus.