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Ideas (1)
Solomon wrote, ‘The wise are mightier than the strong and those with knowledge grow stronger and stronger. So don’t go to war without wise guidance; victory depends on having many advisers’ (Proverbs 24:5-6 NLT). You might not personally be responsible for sending armies into war, but chances are that we all have something going on that we have to have a ‘battle plan’ for. These verses are our reminder that we shouldn’t try to take anything on alone. God has built us to work together. Think about 1 Corinthians, where Paul explains how we all have different strengths and gifts, how we all fit together to make something wonderful, like parts of the human body fitting together to make the whole. He finishes his analogy by saying, ‘you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.’ (1 Corinthians 12:27 NIV). No single one of us has every skill that we need to accomplish the tasks in front of us. We are each a part, not the whole body. It’s natural and right that we need to look to other people for ideas and input to be truly successful. But we need to make sure that we listen properly when others present their ideas to us. Romans 12:16 tells us to ‘live in harmony with each other. Don't be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don't think you know it all!’ (NLT). It can be so damaging to our relationships with others if we dismiss their ideas or input without showing consideration. On the other hand, when we show respect for someone’s ideas, it can be the start of an equal, productive, collaborative relationship.
What Now?
Ask someone for help or advice today, and take the time to really listen to them. Talk through the pros and cons with them, and come to a conclusion together.
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