Reflection: Team work

Think about the teams that you are involved in. Which team sprang to mind? Was it the team you manage or lead, your marriage, your family, a sports team or the church, which you are involved in?

Read Ecclesiastes 4:8-12

Solomon wrote the book of Ecclesiastes and when we read it; his words are very pessimistic and questioning. However, I find it quite refreshing as we are most likely to experience similar questioning and times that are not optimistic.

This particular section of Ecclesiastes explores the value of living in community. The writer describes community as a choice but emphasises the benefit of mutual support and love of one another, where self-interest and individualism is laid aside.  It can be extremely hard to be concerned with the needs of others instead of our own but Solomon encourages us subtly that if we ground our relationships in God, they are stronger. We have the best role model; our God as the Trinity; Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

“Though one may be overpowered,

Two can defend themselves.

A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” (v12 NIV)

Take a few minutes to explore these questions, as you think about your team;

1. How are the relationships within your team? How can you support one another more?
2. Is there equality within the team – is every member free to use their gifting and skills?
3. Are there opportunities for each member to reach their full potential?
4. As a team, how can you enable others outside of your team, reach their full potential?

Prayer:

Father, Son and Holy Spirit - continue to open our hearts and minds to the needs of others beyond ourselves and beyond our teams. Be the strength of our relationships and give us opportunities to participate together to help others grow and reach their full potential. Amen.

Lizzie Telfer is a freelance writer, youth worker and consultant as well as a trustee of Sophia Network.