My husband and I have been married for over 32 years, and one of the things I’ve learnt about relationships is that there is no point fighting each other when you are supposed to be a team. United, we are far better together and can face and overcome obstacles and pressures and make the most of the opportunities that come our way.
I think that’s why God said two are better than one. (Ecc 4:9-12) But getting two to work together is the key and does take time, sacrifice, honesty and choosing to give and tak
But "better together" did not happen overnight. Philip and I have over time learnt how to rely on each other's strengths, to be honest about how we are feeling and to choose to fill in the gaps with one another's weaknesses.
Much like a soccer or football team, we've had to change strategy, regroup, deal with our issues, swallow our pride, hone our skills in an area to make things work smoothly and determine to keep moving forward, trusting God and one another when circumstances have been challenging.
We are now better together.
Action Step
One action step to growing together like this is to agree to weekly share two things that you appreciate about the other person/people you are in a relationship with. Then request (not demand) what would make life easier for you. It’s up to the other person/s whether they consider the request or not, but it will help increase gratitude for the people in your world and your ability to communicate and ask for what you need.
No matter your relationship status, you don't have to "fly solo" because God will always bring people to help if your heart is open and you ask and allow Him to work in your relationships. (Psalm 68:6)
Helen Keller, an American author, political activist and lecturer who was the first deaf and blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree with the help of her mentor and teacher Anne Sullivan said, "walking with a friend in the dark is better than walking alone in the light, for alone we can do so little, together we can do so much".
Today as you go about your day and seek to fulfil your goals, don't forget to check how your close relationships and teamwork with both Jesus and others is going. Because whether we like it or not, two is better than one.
"Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble." (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)
"By this everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.” (John 13:35)
"Let us, therefore, make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification." (Romans 14:9)
Prayer: Lord, thank you that I am part of your team and family. Would you please help me see how great that team is and to have the wisdom and an open heart to know the people you would have me connect with and to grow in my connection with them. Thank you that I don't have to fly solo anymore. In Jesus name Amen.
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