Better Together: Connecting With God And Each OtherSample

Whose Name

Sometimes in our desire to collaborate with others, we tend to care a little too much about whose name goes on top. Maybe not literally, but our sinful nature causes us to want to make sure our name is known well in the collaboration. While in our heart we want to create a “win-win” for all of the members involved, in our mind we tend to care a little too much about how our name will be seen because of the partnership.

One of Paul’s frustrations with the Galatians was whom they were trying to please. Paul was worried that the people were too concerned about pleasing others, instead of being faithful to what God was calling them to do.

In our desire to collaborate for the Kingdom, we need an occasional heart and motive check. Is our desire to make sure our name is first on the sheet, or do we truly want to collaborate in hopes of furthering Christ’s mission and not just our own?

Reflections:

• In your current collaborations, do you focus too much on the importance of your name?
• Thinking forward, how can you protect the desire for true collaboration?
• Are you seeking the approval of men, or of God?