Read Ecclesiastes 4:9–12. What do Solomon's words tell us about working together? How might these words be helpful to you in other settings?

In the business world a best practice is a method or technique that has consistently shown results superior to those achieved with other means, and that is used as a benchmark. If there were such a thing for life, Solomon is sharing it with us. Doing things together is a best practice for life. Solomon gives several examples where two are better than one. When considering this in the context of ministry. It is better when you are ministering that you have someone with you or have someone to mentor you. This will keep you encouraged and balanced when you are ministering. In Solomon’s own words two are better than one.

The following verses record people performing special support tasks. Write down how you think these activities contributed to the overall mission of spreading the gospel. Acts 16:14-15, 33-34

In both these instances we see two important support ministries. The first ministry is the ministry of hospitality. Lydia expressed her hospitality toward those who shared with her the gospel. Hospitality and kindness toward strangers can go a long way to win them over to the gospel. People are drawn by kindness in a way which can not be done by coercion. We also see in one of the passages a ministry of healing. Providing healing to the physical body is an entering wedge to the gospel. People are thankful when you provide a service which improves their well being.

Take a few moments to reflect upon your church's evangelism and witnessing activities. Are you aware of the corporate church goals and strategies? Do you know what stage the church is in this year's program? How could you become more involved in your church's attempts to fulfill the gospel commission?

I believe that people want to work where they are competent and skilled. By discovering what areas you will be most effective in the churches plan it will encourage you to work. As we discovered today sometimes we simply don’t know therefore we can not contribute.

Prayer: Lord God Almighty, we need better communication in our churches. Help us to communicate with each other and work together for the purpose of the Gospel. In Jesus name amen.