Working as a team

I have to tell you that I may be one of the most blessed guys on this earth being married to Erin. We have been married for over 11 years and I am constantly reminded of the great partnership God has given us. I had some health issues last week that Erin and I new about so we talked about her giving the Sunday morning message yesterday. My job was to watch the kids and care for them during our 3 services and she would do my usual job of preaching. Wow! I was reminded of what a powerful spirit God has given Erin and how gifted she is as an instrument to motivate people for Jesus Christ. So many people have complimented her on how impactful her message was and so many people were in tears and they were blessed by her personal touch. God is so good I also discovered that on a normal Sunday I have the easier job as the pastor than she does as the parent. I felt like I was running all over the place chasing after the kids...especially E-Beth.

It was funny to me that she was as appreciative of me letting her speak as I was for her to do it. I just love our relationship because yesterday epitomizes us. What keeps the fires of marriage burning is a constant and steady process of working as a team in every area of our life. We try and share all of the responsibilities that we have together, making sure that each one of us is there for the other when needed. I have to admit that I am not always feeling like the team player when asked to do things. That's not Erin's fault that is mine. I just have to get over my selfishness sometimes.

The partnership things is quit simple. We realize that we can accomplish so much more, that life is so much better, so much more fulfillment together then it would be if we lived apart. Because of that we are willing to make sacrifices of our wants needs and desires as individuals in order to make the partnership work . I like to refer to this as the 80% rule. In any successful partnership the individuals need to be willing to get approximately 80% of what they want. No partnership works if the individuals in it expect to get 100% of what they want. A mutual sacrifice is needed to make life better together. This is how it has works for us. How about you? How are things going in your key relationships. Are you working as a team, sharing the responsibilities? Are you each sacrificing your own personal wants and desires for the good of the relationship? We all need work in our marriages and other relationships. If you are struggling you are not alone. Erin and I have certainly had our share of struggles. But our teamwork, partnership, and commitment to one another in Jesus Christ always brings us out on the other side of it better. I pray God works on your heart as He continues to work on mine. Blessings, Your Dreaming Pastor