Academics G 001: Jacob-Esau Classroom Competition

Jacob-Esau Classroom Competition

First-semester graduate courses that have the stated or unstated “gateway” objectives—narrowing down the selection—can ignite intense interpersonal competition among students vying for coveted spots. At the undergraduate level, the competition is less interpersonal because of the large number of students enrolled. However, at the graduate level, because the numbers are small and because the competing students know each other’s relative strengths and weaknesses, the feeling that one’s gain is another’s loss provides less incentive for charitable cooperation or collaboration. Under such conditions, those who succeed are often viewed as the best and brightest, and others who don’t are directed to go elsewhere, mourning their loss of time, money, self-esteem and social regard.

The biblical story of Esau and Jacob (Genesis 27) typifies similar competition where the coveted positions are limited, and the competitors are few and know each other and can personalize their strife. Esau and Jacob were brothers who craved their father’s birthright prayers, blessing and inheritance. Both believed that their futures would be determined by their father’s pronouncements and the limited opportunity. Rather than charitable interactions, jealousy, deceit, manipulation and factious plots ruled their lives.

On the other hand, Joseph (Genesis 37, 39-45) and David (1 Samuel 16-2 Samuel 1) faced similar sibling jealousies and competitive squabbles. In the end, God’s calling and avenue prevailed, not human will and limitations. Therefore, a Christian need not subscribe to negative competitive assumptions that human pronouncements and positions create true winners. The true trophies and accolades are unseen and won through Christ-like living. Such heavenly rewards are reserved for the Day of Christ.

Reflective insights:

God ultimately controls and directs our futures and destinies.
Joseph and David demonstrated generosity when facing competitive odds and opposition and God rewarded their faithfulness.
Their sharing and generosity brought healing, promoted friendships and trust, and future goodwill.
Most perceived limitations of resources and opportunities that foster negative thoughts, attitudes and behaviors are FALSE.
Sometimes a shut door can turn us toward better options, unanticipated and unimagined, if we do not give into despair, unbelief and negative ploys.
Turning to God and one’s spiritual relationship in Christ is the key to overcoming the competition-inspired seductions and temptations in graduate programs.

To share your biblical or experiential reflection insights, write us at collegesuccesscenter@gmail.com and submit one or two bullet points (not repeating the points made above). Alternatively, submit a short real-life anecdotal story (150 words maximum) demonstrating God’s deliverance in your life, as He did with Joseph and David.

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