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Feeling threatened by someone else's career probably is normal in the sense that personal shortcomings are routine in a world full of imperfection. But it's not the way God designed Christians to relate to each other in the church—or in marriage.

God created his people to be individuals, not so they could fight and make each other jealous, but so they could benefit from each other's skills and gifts. The Christian church needs all sorts of talents. Paul listed wisdom, knowledge, faith, and the power to heal the sick, prophesy, work miracles, speak in languages, and interpret them. His point was not that you should tally up your skills and have contests about who's most important. His point was that you should share these spiritual gifts with each other—because they are all gifts from God.

The same is true in marriage. You are a gift from God to each other—and that includes your skills on and off the job. You should use these gifts for the well-being of other people, including your family and coworkers, and to serve God. At the same time, you should do all you can to respect and support your spouse's skills as a gift from God. (See also Numbers 12; Luke 3:7-20.)

Good Words To Remember:
There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. 1 Corinthians 12:5, 6

Today's Challenge:
How do you show your spouse you respect his skills?

Copyright © 2001 by the author or Christianity Today International/Christian Bible Studies.