OCTOBER 23-24 – On the team

“Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others” - Philippians 2:4

Every sportsman knows that if their side is to succeed, every man or woman must be good team players. The same applies if we want to be real winners on the field of life, we must look out not only for our own interests, but also for the interests of others. To be a good team player we cannot afford to think only of ourselves. We have to use our talents to cooperate with our teammates for the common good – even if that means letting somebody else get the glory. If that's what it takes for the team to win, then that's what we do, and we do it gladly. It's significant that the first thing Jesus did when He began His ministry was to start building a team.

The great thing about being part of a team is that we are chosen. We are important because others are depending on us to play our position – we are needed. We are an accepted part of something bigger than ourselves. This is vital because there are times when the pressure is on. Somebody on the team drops the ball or misses a goal.

In situations like these the way we treat each other makes the difference between winning and losing, and makes or breaks team morale. God cares about our performance towards each other – the way we treat other – winning, or losing.  The 'dressingroom' pep talks Jesus gave to His team was this, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.  By this everyone will know that you are my disciples (my team), if you love one another” - John 13:34-35.  The Apostle Paul also, echoing his Coaches words says,  "Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others" Philippians 2:3.4.

Dave Dravecky, American baseball player, writes: 'Affirming the worth of your co-workers is as valuable as the work you accomplish.'

To make it in this world, we need to be part of a team. Who's on yours?

Music today is one from Bryn's selection - “I Can't Make it Lord Without You” - The Isaacs. Click on the quote to listen.