A team of songwriters, musicians, and singers had worked well together on various projects over the space of several years. They were a rather motley crew and had had their share of ups and downs, but had always managed to hang together somehow. So when nearly everyone’s inspiration level hit an unprecedented and inexplicable low at the same time, the couple leading the team was naturally concerned. They were Christians who depended a lot on prayer, so they asked God to show them what had gone wrong and how to turn things around.

The answer they received was short and simple: “You’ve been cutting corners on love.” Everyone had gotten so wrapped up in their work that they’d all stopped taking time to show one another love and appreciation—the very things that had made them such a good team in the first place.

The couple explained that to the rest of the team, and together they drew up a list of all the special little things they’d stopped saying or doing for each other.Then at the end of the meeting they all prayed that Jesus would help them take more time to show love. It wasn’t long before the team produced its best music ever. They had found the secret to staying close as a team and keeping the inspiration level high. It was in little daily deeds of kindness and caring.

We’re not all songwriters, musicians, or singers, of course, but there is hardly a person on earth who isn’t part of at least one team—a family, a marriage, a business partnership, a staff, a work crew, a sports team, a club, or a circle of friends. “No man is an island.” We all need others, and we all have an opportunity to better the people and situations around us. Love and communication are the keys, and, as always, God wants nothing less than the best for all of us. As you help Him bring out the best in others, He’ll bring out the best in you.

Keith Phillips

For Activated