Teamwork

<<joint effort>>

Working together diligently for a common goal often produces results greater than the sum total of all the individuals’ singular efforts (Neh 4:6; Eccl 4:9-12). Individually we are not as strong as all of us collectively as a new set of dynamics come into play with an increased number of committed people (Lev 26:8). There is power in numbers for ‘united we stand, divided we fall’; conflict and division disrupt the effectiveness of such relationships with withdrawal and independence making people vulnerable to Satan’s divisive attacks (1 Pet 5:8).

It requires teamwork for society and Christian ministry to function effectively because we have different abilities and strengths that we can contribute; even our physical body needs all its parts functioning correctly and in harmony to be efficient (1 Cor 12:12-30). Can others rely on my ongoing involvement?

It is essential, for our own benefit, to be committed to a church as the local expression of the Kingdom of God, by being involved in its ministries and utilizing our God given abilities (1 Cor 3:6-9). We must do our part, fulfilling our responsibility and let God do His; as the disciples obediently responded, “The Lord worked with them…” (Mk 16:20). Christian teamwork acknowledges God as the established leader, adding the common bond, strength and cohesion to the group. There must be a robust love for God and love for one another, tempered with healthy relational boundaries along with humility.

Co-operation with others involves understanding, tolerance, accountability, compatibility, looking out for their safety, sharing the load, not seeking individual recognition or glory, but working together, “considering others better than ourselves” with open and clear communication, towards the common goal (Phil 2:2-5). In any team there needs to be give and take, sometimes to carry others and at other times to be carried by them (2 Cor 8:14; Gal 6:2). Do I have a network of friends, my team, who I can call and rely on? Am I a team player or an individualist?

yet as they share the weight of responsibility and contribute to the success of the endeavour all should share equally in the rewards (1 Sam 30:24).

In a group there is added stimulus and accountability, with balance derived from the valuable viewpoints of several people, rather than just an individual perspective, as each contributes from their strengths while learning from others in the areas they are lacking (Prov 20:18, 27:17). Leaders will naturally emerge within the team, however all members should have input into the decision-making process, focusing on the goal and their responsibilities, not their rights, differences or personal agendas. There is no ‘I’ in team, rather the focus is ‘us’ with humble submission to others (Eph 5:21). Problems can arise when some team members consider others are not shouldering their share of the burden or are being shown favouritism (Mt 20:1-16). Conflict can result when there is a divergence along the path as to which is the best route to the reach the objective. Thus it is essential to have a clearly defined goal and regular team meetings to hear and address any concerns and differences. It is a fact of life there will be a souring of relationships at time with even key members of a tight knit group moving on. It takes considerable time for new folk to become committed, jelled in and contributing as interdependent members in the rejuvenated team. It is important not to despise or shun those who once were close and who worked along side you. All parties must be sensitive to the Holy Spirit and deal with the hurt issues that they have caused and also been effected by. Rather than focus on the areas that cause disagreement and offence concentratre on the values that you have in common.

It is God’s design for two parents to produce and raise children.  The roles of men and women complement each other and through this partnership (marriage), they provide mutual assistance, strength and encouragement for their family as well as each other.

be head coach directing the team, not just the 'ball boy'.

See also: accountability, co-operation, communication, conflict, dependence, influential Christians, leaders/leadership, partnership, offence, position in Christ, relationships, strength, unity.