One of the values of my mission organization is this: “We’re Better Together.” Pretty simple, and you may have seen similar statements in other organizations. Simple is good, but sometimes profound values get dismissed as “cute,” missing the “why.” Value statements express an organization’s core beliefs and serve as a guide for decision-making. They define what the organization believes in and how people within the organization are expected to behave. These statements also help communicate the organization’s priorities and standards to anyone looking through the “picket fence” into the heart of the group.
Why would you, I, or any organization be better because of others?
First, it’s better to walk through life with others. The Christian life is often called a “walk” in the Bible. Colossians 2:6-7 says, “Just as you receive Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him.” When you walk with someone, you’ll find several benefits. You’ll not be alone. The first thing God said was “not good” in Genesis was “aloneness.” You’ll be safer. There is often safety in numbers. You already know it. You’ll also be encouraged not to give up. Life is often tough, and the temptation to give up is enormous. A simple word from a fellow traveler can make all the difference. It’s smarter, too. You might not be traveling in the right direction, and your friend can help you navigate.
We really are better together. Solomon seemed to think so. Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12