The Lone Ranger style doesn’t work. Working alone, carrying the weight, bearing the risk in today’s challenged economy is foolish. The pressure, risk of burnout and health issues resulting from increasing the daily challenge of working alone doesn’t work.
“I saw something meaningless under the sun: There was a man all alone; he had neither son nor brother. There was no end to his toil, yet his eyes were not content with his wealth. “For whom am I toiling,” he asked, “and why am I depriving myself of enjoyment?” This too is meaningless—a miserable business! Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor.” (Ecclesiastes 4:7-9 NIV)
God gave each of us strengths, weaknesses, skills and abilities. When we work alone, we are prone to fail. We lack support. When we partner, there is more fun in the work; my strengths help another’s weakness and together we produce more.
In a former home church, we built a new building with 90% volunteer labor. Each of us had strengths and weaknesses. We found friends who were willing to help in their area of expertise. Working alone we could not accomplish much, yet when we put all our abilities, relationships and networks together we received free advice, volunteer time, effort and donated equipment.
Our relationship with Christ is similar.
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5 NIV)
Solomon confirms. “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” (Ecclesiastes 4:12 NIV)
Leadership is … learning to partner as we work to serve God.
Yours in Service,
Laurie D. Kennedy
Leadership Coach
Jethro Group
ldkjethrogroup@gmail.com