11/09/2025
COMPETITION AND COMPETITORS
There are many people who put themselves in competition with others—wanting to be above them, wishing they were not better, or even being disturbed by their very existence. These unhealthy feelings often breed jealousy, and many cannot hide their hatred toward the person they are contending with.
Competitors who are close to you are often the most dangerous. For example, some husbands compete with their wives, and some wives secretly contend with their husbands—all in the name of competition. Friends can suddenly become enemies out of rivalry. Some parents even show hatred toward one of their children, especially when that child is more successful than the firstborn. Sometimes, parents create unnecessary rivalry among siblings, which leads to bitterness and hatred.
In workplaces, colleagues may deliberately look for ways to get the person they envy into trouble. Among musicians, some speak badly of their colleagues because they want to be seen everywhere and remain on the “A list.” Even in ministry, some men of God struggle with others when they see them flourishing more in their calling. Instead of celebrating one another, competition sets in, and when they cannot keep up, it leads to criticism.
Politically, rivalry is rooted in the struggle for power. Landlords may even compete with tenants when they see them prospering, though it should be the other way around. Anyone with the spirit of “I must be the only one doing well” will always find someone to contend with.
The most dangerous of all are secret competitors—the ones you never suspect. They carefully study your every move, not to learn, but to use your strengths against you and climb the ladder of success through your hard work.
Kolorun gba wa lowo won (May God deliver us from them).
