Sunday, February 8, 2026

As we step into Preach Off, you may be asking yourself, “Competitive Preaching: How does this help me grow closer to Jesus?”

It's easy to think of competition as something that divides us or pulls us away from what really matters, but that's not always true. The real challenge is keeping our hearts in the right place, whether we’re in the classroom, on the field, at work, or even in church. When we see competition through God’s eyes, it becomes less about proving ourselves and more about helping each other grow. We can glorify God by lifting others up and encouraging them to do their best.

Proverbs 27:17
As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.

This verse suggests that relational challenges and mutual striving strengthen character. Competition focused on sharpening our friends invites individuals and teams to bring out the best in each other. When intensity comes from a place of fun, camaraderie, and a desire to share Jesus with the world, it can truly refine our character.

Competition offers us an opportunity to learn and grow in humility, cementing our desire to honor God. Each encounter becomes an opportunity for growth - not just in skill, but in grace, patience, and love. Our aim shifts from “beating” others to building them up, and from winning applause to winning hearts for Christ.

As you look ahead into this week, consider how you can use your gifts to encourage and sharpen those around you. Ask God to help you compete in a way that points others to him, remembering that every challenge is also a chance for transformation.

May your pursuit this week be not just victory, but Christlikeness - so that through friendly rivalry, we all move closer to the character of Jesus.

Discussion Questions:

Ice Breaker: What was your favorite Super Bowl commercial of all time? What made it so memorable?

What makes a church or Group feel like a place where people can truly grow together, not just attend together?

Read Proverbs 27:17: What do you think it means to “sharpen” one another spiritually? Why do you think God values relationships so much in our growth?

In what ways are you currently being encouraged, challenged, or supported in your faith?

Reflect and Respond: Is there an area of your life where you’ve been trying to grow alone instead of in community? Take a moment to pray and ask God to help you both receive and offer sharpening in love and humility.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I am so thankful for my church and its mission to do everything short of sin to point people to you. You keep reminding us that there is nothing in this world that doesn’t come from you and that can't be used to lead others toward you. This week, I humbly ask you to show me any places in my relationships where I need to be sharpened. I love you, I trust you, and I worship you. Amen.

This post was written by Lori Tuckerman, Director of Content for the Daily LivingItOut.