I would not expect anyone to say "second" is best, but that is what Bob Lutz did. Lutz is an automotive industry giant. Speaking of his stint as second in command at Chrysler, he called it, "absolutely the best period in my whole career."[i] Pretty strong words from a man whose resume drips with success! Our culture has a love affair with "number one"! We adore number one, applaud number one, dream of being number one, and pay number one the BIG bucks! That can make it tough to settle in as a number two. There is no crime in being number one, but the job won't get done without a lot of "seconds." Just ask Aaron and Hur. When God's miraculous power fell on Moses, it took a couple of second fiddles to keep it flowing.
While the people of Israel were still at Rephidim, the warriors of Amalek came to fight against them. Moses commanded Joshua, 'Call the Israelites to arms, and fight the army of Amalek. Tomorrow, I will stand at the top of the hill with the staff of God in my hand.' So Joshua did what Moses had commanded. He led his men out to fight the army of Amalek. Meanwhile Moses, Aaron, and Hur went to the top of a nearby hill. As long as Moses held up the staff with his hands, the Israelites had the advantage. But whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites gained the upper hand. Moses' arms finally became too tired to hold up the staff any longer. So Aaron and Hur found a stone for him to sit on. Then they stood on each side, holding up his hands until sunset. As a result, Joshua and his troops were able to crush the army of Amalek. (Exodus 17:8-13 NLT)
There is no first place without people willing to stand in second place. That goes for winning a war, winning over customers, or winning any game in life. Take some time to appreciate the Aaron or Hur in your life today!
MY PRAYER: Lord, help me to see and appreciate all the people who stand in the second place.
[i] Co-Leaders: The Power of Great Partnerships, page 10.