1+1= More Than We Expected

    Have you ever heard of synergy?  It is a term that comes from the Greek language that combines the words energy and partnership.  It is used several times in the New testament to describe people working together in the Gospel (Philippians 2:25, Philippians 4:3, Philemon 1:24, Romans 16:3, 9, 21, Colossians 4:11) or thing workings together (James 2:22, Romans 8:28)  

    The idea is that we can do more together than we can do alone. The work of two is multiplied rather than combined. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 describes this effect,

“Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him--a threefold cord is not quickly broken.”

    This is true in safety and labor but also in spiritual growth. Having others to help and encourage you will keep you on track and out of danger. Even the “lone Ranger” worked with a partner. In your efforts, don't try to go it alone.  Scripture tells us in Hebrews 10:23-25, “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” Christians were never intended to “go it alone”. We need to combine our efforts to make sure we doing all we can in the Lord.