"We" not "I"

As we enter this final couple weeks of 2008, it’s a good time to take a life inventory. I was reading out of the book of Proverbs and was reminded that I have a responsibility to stay sharp and to be a sharpener for others. I need to engage others in the leadership decisions and learn to say “we” more often than I say “I”. Personal success in today’s world requires more than just a few loyalists. It requires real connection with peers and all those who have a stake in the vision. Synergy is the term used to describe a situation where the final outcome of a system is greater than the sum of its parts.

In the Bible, synergism illustrates a connection of human, and divine cooperation:

1 Corinthians 3:6-9 I planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow. It's not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What's important is that God makes the seed grow. The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. And both will be rewarded for their own hard work. For we are both God's workers. And you are God's field. You are God's building."

Solomon also used this concept in wisdom literature.

“As Iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17)
This concept allows me to help others to do good work. Someone once said that much can get done by us if we are not so concerned about who gets the credit. A leaders ability to enable others to act is essential. I wonder who around me could be turned into a leader if given the chance today?

Ya gotta love Synergy

One of the Bible verses in my sermon yesterday morning really stuck with me as I went through the day. I am always fascinated by statements of commitment. Anytime someone commits to us in a solid way, it brings warmth to our situation. We can accomplish exponentially more when we are not alone. I am told that a team of oxen can pull amazing loads. The sum of their individual capacities is much smaller than the capability of the team yoked together. It is called synergism. (combined effort being greater than parts.)

“One Oxen can pull 2,000 lbs. Two oxen working separately would pull a total of 4,000 lbs. If you join the oxen together they can pull 10,000 lbs. Their combined forces produce a greater power and effect.”


Jonathan’s armor bearer made a statement to Jonathan about going to take on the much larger Philistine army:

1 Samuel 14:7 "Do what you think is best," the armor bearer replied. "I'm with you completely, whatever you decide."

I have decided to make that my prayer statement to God. It is a prayer of commitment::

“Father, Do what you think is best in my life today. I am with you completely whatever you decide”

With greater potential power comes greater responsibility. The concept of collaborating with God stirs my soul today. You gotta love synergy!