Teamwork
Scripture Reading — Philippians 1:1-6
“I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.”
1 Corinthians 3:6
Often when I meet with our international teams, I read Paul’s words from Philippians 1. Paul was the apostle to the Gentiles. He was an unlikely eyewitness to the resurrection and one “abnormally born” into Christian service (1 Corinthians 15:8). His special calling might have made him think he was God’s army of one!
But Paul knew he couldn’t fulfill his mission alone. So he built teams of fellow workers in every city he visited. While you and I often give thanks for the things God gives us, Paul gave thanks for the people God gave him to further his mission! In our text, Paul acknowledges that the teamwork of the first century involved not only himself and a gifted preacher, Apollos, but also another indispensible partner: God himself. God is the master gardener who brings about the incredible growth of his church!
I give thanks for the more than 200 staff persons Back to God Ministries International has around the world. I give thanks for the more than 800 volunteers who work with us. It’s their faithfulness, blessed by God’s grace, that has made mission happen.
Ask yourself today, “What team has God put me on? With whom am I working to further the gospel?” Not even Paul could go it alone. Pray that God connects you with other believers so that in using your gifts together, you may be used of Jesus.
Lord, align us in your kingdom with the right people to do the job you intend for us. May your kingdom grow! Amen.
About the author — Bob Heerspink
Dr. Robert Heerspink was director of Back to God Ministries International from 2006 until 2011, when he passed away. He had previously pastored several Christian Reformed churches. Bob loved to write and was a frequent contributor to the Today devotional.
Start your day with quick daily devotions.
See God's love, power, presence, and purpose in your life every day!