Teamwork

 “Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel.” (Philippians 1:27, ESV)

This week we have followed the apostle Paul from his conversion, through a time of revelation and preparation, and then to his missionary travels. Paul had a remarkable ministry and dedicated his life to taking the gospel to the then-known world. But he did not work alone. As we read through Acts and the Epistles, we find so many who partnered with him in ministry.

WORKING SIDE BY SIDE

Not only do we read of Barnabas, Silas, Luke, and Timothy—familiar names to us—we also learn of Aristarchus, Epaphras, Gaius, Jason, Sopater, Luke, John Mark, Lydia, Priscilla and Aquila. These, and numerous others we have not mentioned, were all “striving side by side for the faith.” But ultimately, the glory did not belong to one man or even a group of believers. First Corinthians 3:6-9 tells us anything accomplished comes from the Lord.

“I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth . . . For we are God’s fellow workers . . . like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building upon it. Let each one take care how he builds upon it.” (ESV)

REACHING OUR WORLD

God’s work requires teamwork. None of us can fulfill the task alone; the work is too immense. By partnering together, however, we can reach our world with the gospel.

Like Paul and his companions, some will travel thousands of miles to minister in unreached areas of the world. Others may never travel more than a few miles from home, yet they still serve as a vital link in fulfilling the Great Commission. A strong home base is needed to support those God sends forth with not just finances but also faithful prayer support.

Still others may advance God’s work in ways they may not realize. What about the faithful saint of God who teaches children in their local church? Perhaps some of those children may later minister as an evangelist, a pastor or pastor’s wife, a Bible teacher, or a missionary. Although that faithful saint may never travel far beyond their hometown, they partner in the future ministry of each child they teach.

PART OF THE TEAM

The church of God is a beautiful thing. God desires to use each of us in ways that complement our abilities and talents. Never underestimate what God will do with a willing heart. We are all part of the team, and every effort counts.

“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” (I Peter 4:10, ESV)

PRAYER: Lord, thank You for allowing me to be a part of Your commission to reach my world with the gospel. Whether I serve you at home or in distant regions, help me to be a good steward of the gifts and abilities You have given me. None of what I do is for my glory, for all glory belongs to You.

Devotion by Mary Loudermilk