There is nothing more powerful than “being together”.

Every relationship, of every type and sort, seeks to nurture this reality.

Sports teams rise or fall based on how well they get this done. Until the team comes together, the potential of the talent will always be woefully insufficient. Every coach knows that building team and creating a sense of “togetherness” is what decides success and stability.

Businesses spend an inordinate amount of time and money on the “being together” component. Internal policies are created and implemented to focus on this reality and external consultants are brought in to nurture “being together”.

Churches and church movements are also intensely focused on this … and honestly, couples/families would do well to make this a highly sought after reality!

The truth is that …
Being Together … Means More Than Simply Occupying The Same Space

There is great biblical importance for maintaining unity … and we must acknowledge that abiding in unity is both good and pleasant! These words from Psalm 133 declare this to us in absolute terms:

1 How good and pleasant it is
when God’s people live together in unity!
2 It is like precious oil poured on the head,
running down on the beard,
running down on Aaron’s beard,
down on the collar of his robe.
3 It is as if the dew of Hermon
were falling on Mount Zion.
For there the Lord bestows his blessing,
even life forevermore.

Knowing this adds increased importance on “being together”.

There are principles that we can know and employ that will bring to us the desired results that we seek after … and they will work in every context.

Justin Lathrop in his article, “4 Quick and Easy Ways to Build Camaraderie on Your Team”, shares the core of what those principles look like and while his specific context is focused on the church, the insights that he articulates will have real value in every context that we consider.

Here is what he says, “One of the most important things you can do to keep your church’s team function well in place, is to create camaraderie in the workplace.

Studies show that, if people are connected in a meaningful way with their co-workers, their productivity is higher and retention is longer, even if they don’t feel particularly energized by their daily tasks. That said, one of the most important things we can do as leaders is to create an environment where everyone feels connected in a meaningful way to the community.”

Being Together … Means More Than Simply Occupying The Same Space

Justin goes on to share these four tips which I believe will bring the unity that we are called to promote and protect. (I would encourage you to read his complete article at … https://catalystleader.com/read/4-quick-and-easy-ways-to-build-camaraderie-on-your-team)

▪ Set the tone for open communication
Open communication creates safety, and it only takes one person to set the tone for this kind of transparency and clarity. Generally, if one person is clear and open with their communication, it gives others permission to do the same.

▪ Resolve conflicts quickly
Often in our efforts to cultivate positive relationships, we avoid conflict, thinking, “let’s just keep the peace.” The problem is, avoiding conflict never keeps the peace like we think it will. In fact, conflicts that are left untouched become worse over time. A conflict that starts small can get out of hand if it’s not addressed quickly.

▪ Respect the differences of individuals and celebrate their values
One way you can help yourself to see the values of each person is to take a personality assessment or do a spiritual gifts assessment together.

▪ Give away ownership
Finally, allow each member to feel invested. Others are more likely to feel like they’re an integral part and therefore they will bring their best every day and will feel responsible for what they are doing.
This is great counsel … and if you read Justin’s entire article, you will get even more insights to consider from him.

Being Together … Means More Than Simply Occupying The Same Space

If only it was that simple … but clearly, it is not!

We need to succeed here, so we need to start right now to nurture “being together” in every way we can.

The outcomes we will gain are promised to us and these gains will enable us to make the most of every opportunity! They will improve relational vitality and things will get better on every level.

We dare not miss this … for any reason!

-Terry-