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The Team Effect

Jimmy Page

Ready:

“Above all, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ. Then… I will know that you are standing together with one spirit and one purpose, fighting together for the faith, which is the Good News.” Philippians 1:27

Set:

Looking back to high school, I remember “try-outs” and going through drills and scrimmages on the basketball court to determine the team. After days of competition, the coach would begin to make cuts. Each morning he would post the list of those still in the hunt. We all rushed to see if we made the team.

That was just the starting point. It’s one thing to make the team, but an entirely different thing to become a team. The following weeks of practice would determine if our group of individuals could become a cohesive team. Teams working unselfishly and in sync will often beat a group of individuals, even if the individuals are more talented. 

Whether competing on the field, court, or in life, your success depends on your unity. In Philippians 1:27, Paul gives an example of the importance of standing together as a team, united in faith, effort, and purpose. There is power in unity. When we know someone is counting on us to show up and bring our best, we don’t want to let them down. When we realize their results are linked to our effort and actions, there is accountability.

Come together as one and enjoy the “team effect!”

Go:

1. What does it look like to bring your best attitude and effort to the team?

2. How do your actions and words – positive and negative – affect your team’s unity?

3. Why is it important for you to unite with other believers in Jesus? How might this encourage you in your walk with Him? 

  

Overtime:

God, help me be a great teammate, bringing my best attitude and effort to my team. Help me to pursue unity so we can be our best and glorify You.”