We can do far more together than we can alone! A simple statement, yet a concept that takes strategy and patience. In over 20 years of ministry, I have grasped the importance of relationships. One thing I’ve learned is that not all relationships turn into partnership, but all partnerships require relationships. What I mean by partnership is that some of our relationships are due to proximity and when our proximity changes the relationship either becomes distant or continues as a partnership.
Let’s dive into this a little deeper. We all have many relationships, but you must evaluate them to determine the depth. Categorically speaking, we can have relationships with strangers, acquaintances, friends, and best friends. Depending on which category we’re discussing, the depth will obviously be different. Likewise, the same is evident in partnerships, you can have partners who connect through praying, giving, and/or going.
The Apostle Paul understood this greatly, and in his letter to the Philippians he gives some markers to the role of partners. In Philippians 4:10-20, he says that partners rejoice greatly, live contently, invest in Kingdom work, exhibit fruit, worship sacrificially, and faithfully trust the Lord. Each of these can be expressed in different ways depending on the context, but I believe that they should all be evident in true partnerships. Throughout the years, Restoration Church has had “partners” who have exhibited a wide variety of these aspects, but regardless of the depth, I’m thankful for each partner!
Without partnership in the gospel, the work of the ministry can be a lonely place. I pray that you will deeply consider this statement as you reflect on your level of partnership in the gospel. Let me invite each of us to look for ways to deepening our partnership as we serve King Jesus!
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