We’re not only saved by grace (Eph. 2:8-9) but we also walk by grace (Col. 2:6). That enables us to live victorious, godly lives (Titus 2:11-12) which then helps us relate with one another in wholesome ways (Eph. 4:25-32). We have power to function as a team because of grace.
7 Ways We Find Power to Function as a Team Because of Grace
Think of the powerful difference grace makes when we grab hold of the following realities:
1) Grace puts team members on the same plane. (Rom. 3:24; Eph. 4:7)
As a result, we approach one another from a place of humility rather than superiority. Though we may have different responsibilities and parts to contribute on the team, one member is no better than the other. We’re able to let go of our pride and need to be in control.
2) Grace removes the need to compare and compete which are big obstacles to functioning as a team. (Rom. 12:6; 1 Cor. 15:10; 2 Cor. 12:9;2 Tim. 1:9)
Each person contributes because of the grace given to them, not because of how special or skilled a person is or isn’t. Consequently, we’re able to accept ourselves and one another for who we are.
3) Grace helps us rise above petty offences that too often bring division to teams. (Eph. 4:32; Heb. 12:15)
Grace is redemptive, seeking to unite rather than divide. We exercise compassion and forgiveness rather than react unkindly and hold grudges.
4) Grace gives us the power to speak the truth in love with one another. (Rom. 15:15; Col. 4:6)
As Jesus came full of both grace AND truth (Jn. 1:14), so we acknowledge the need to approach one another honestly, with integrity of heart. A team member functioning in line with grace should not respond as a “doormat” to be walked upon by other stronger, more vocal teammates.
5) Grace leads to gratitude and appreciation for one another, even those who may seem more difficult to work with or those with whom we may disagree. (1 Cor. 1:4)
When we truly believe we’re all in this together because of God’s grace, we look at one another through that lens of grace. Our perspective toward one another changes as we look for His grace in their lives.
6) Grace makes you willing to sacrifice for the sake of the team. (2 Cor. 8:9; 1 Pet. 4:10)
We lose our sense of entitlement when we grab hold of God’s grace. We don’t use our freedom in Christ to indulge our own selfish desires but rather “serve one another humbly in love” (Gal. 5:13).
7) Grace keeps us on track. (2 Pet. 3:17-18; Titus 2:11-13)
Because it’s so easy for us to get carried away by error and our own ambitions rather than align with God’s purposes, design, and mission for the Church, it’s important we emphasize the need to keep growing in grace. As leaders, we can remind team members of the above truths about grace, encouraging them to stand firm in it (1 Pet. 5:12), and pull on this powerful resource to function as a team.
More about Grace: God’s Power – The Grace of God
All Posts about Team Building:
- Essential Team Building Components
- Team Building by Aligning with God’s Purposes
- Team Building by Functioning Interdependently
- Team Building by Exercising Christ-like Character
- Team Building Leads to being on Mission Together
- Team Building Pulling on God’s Power
- Power to Function as a Team Because of the Gospel
- The Difference God’s Power Makes in Functioning as a Team
- Power to Function as a Team Because of Grace
- Power to Function as a Team Because of the Holy Spirit
- Power to Function as a Team When Praying Together
- Power to Function as a Team Because of Spiritual Gifts
- Perspective to Function as a Team