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Bigger Versus Being Better

The contrast between being bigger versus being better highlights the importance of adopting the right attitude and perspective—both in our personal lives and in our interactions with others.

Too often, our natural inclination is to focus on being “better” than others, seeking power, recognition, or victory at their expense. This mindset is deeply ingrained in society, but it’s ultimately harmful and short-sighted. Jesus, however, turned this notion on its head. Through His example of servant leadership, He demonstrated what it means to be the bigger person by embodying humility, love, and grace.

Jesus’ Example of Being Bigger

Time and again, Jesus chose to rise above petty conflicts and societal expectations, living out the principles of God’s Kingdom. His actions shocked the religious systems of His time, and they challenge us today to adopt a similar mindset.

This concept extends beyond individuals to the church as well. The temptation for churches to engage in competition, gossip, or petty disputes can distract us from our ultimate mission: the Great Commission. Instead, we are called to be bigger in our hearts, faith, actions, attitudes, and interactions—both as individuals and as a collective body.

Biblical Illustration: Saul and David

The lives of King Saul and David illustrate this principle beautifully. Saul, driven by jealousy, sought to be “better” than David, while David, rooted in his relationship with God, chose to be bigger.

He said to his men, ‘The Lord forbid that I should do this to my lord the king. I shouldn’t attack the Lord’s anointed one, for the Lord himself has chosen him.

1 Samuel 24:6

Over time, this difference in their attitudes became clear. David’s strength and influence grew, while Saul’s dynasty weakened:

That was the beginning of a long war between those who were loyal to Saul and those loyal to David. As time passed David became stronger and stronger, while Saul’s dynasty became weaker and weaker.

2 Samuel 3:1

Saul may have been physically imposing, but his heart was small. David, on the other hand, had a big heart that reflected his connection with God. This difference in their identities shaped their actions and ultimately determined their legacies.

Choosing to Be Bigger

In ministry and in life, there are countless opportunities to compare ourselves to others and strive to be “better.” But this is a mistake. God calls us to be bigger on the inside so that His work can flow through us and have an even greater impact on the outside.

Being bigger means rising above offenses, resisting pettiness, and choosing forgiveness and grace. It means not letting the wrongs done to us produce sin within us. It’s about reflecting God’s love and purpose in all that we do.

Being bigger means rising above offenses, resisting pettiness, and choosing forgiveness and grace. It’s about reflecting God’s love and purpose in all that we do.

Practical Steps: 25 Ways to Be Bigger

Here are 25 practical ways to embrace being bigger instead of striving to be better:

  1. Forgive others.
  2. Say you’re sorry.
  3. Put others first.
  4. Do what’s best for others.
  5. Prioritize relationships to keep them alive.
  6. Serve others.
  7. Be generous.
  8. Show love.
  9. Let others go first.
  10. Close doors with love, leaving room for reconciliation.
  11. Let God lead instead of your insecurities.
  12. Allow God to heal your insecurities.
  13. Celebrate others’ blessings.
  14. Believe there is enough for everyone.
  15. Overcome offense.
  16. Seek healing for your pain.
  17. Avoid being petty.
  18. Choose redemption over retaliation.
  19. Exercise wisdom.
  20. Trust God’s plan for your life.
  21. Be for the big Church.
  22. Stay faithful.
  23. Be honest.
  24. Learn from those ahead of you.
  25. Don’t fear what you don’t know.

Moving Forward

Which of these steps can you apply to your life today? Take action and watch how God moves through you and your church as you choose to rise above.

When we embrace being bigger, we align ourselves with God’s heart and purpose. This attitude allows us to make a real difference in the lives of others, leading them to Jesus and advancing His Kingdom.

Have a great day as you choose to be bigger!

PD

Pastor David Norris

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