LEAN ON ME...AND YOU
Lean on Each Other’s Strengths
Most of us have taken some sort of strengths, gifts, or personality test at some point. It could have been StrengthsFinder 2.0, a spiritual gifts assessment, or something specific for your current role. These tools help us understand where we’re naturally wired to thrive. But here’s the thing: understanding your strengths is only the first step. Actually utilizing your strengths —and the strengths of those around you—is a whole different story.
In today’s world, it’s easier than ever to try doing things yourself. With a few clicks, you can watch a YouTube tutorial and learn how to complete nearly any task. That’s fine if time is unlimited. But for those of us with full plates and tight schedules, learning to lean on others and operate in community is not only efficient—it’s biblical.
Just today, I had the chance to help a friend lay the foundation for his new business venture. In just a couple of hours, we knocked out what might’ve taken him days to do alone. Why? Because the work was squarely in my lane of expertise. He’s done the same for me in the past—offering help in areas where I would have fumbled badly. That kind of mutual support is not just wise; it’s essential.
We weren’t made to do everything solo—especially the important things. Let’s look at some powerful biblical examples:
Bezalel and Oholiab – Skilled Craftsmen for the Tabernacle
Exodus 31:1–6; 36:1–2
God specifically chose and filled Bezalel and Oholiab with “the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and all kinds of skills.” Their God-given craftsmanship moved the Tabernacle project forward with excellence and speed.
We see that delegating to those with God-given skills accelerates excellence.
Solomon – Building the Temple with Expert Help
1 Kings 5–6
Solomon, though wise himself, wisely partnered with Hiram, king of Tyre, who provided expert builders and the finest materials. The Temple, a massive and beautiful structure, was completed in just seven years.
Here we see Solomon seek outside expertise to quicken and elevate God's work.
Nehemiah – Rebuilding Jerusalem’s Walls
Nehemiah 2–6
Nehemiah didn’t rebuild the wall himself. Instead, he organized a diverse group—priests, goldsmiths, merchants—and assigned each section strategically, often based on proximity to their homes. The wall was finished in just 52 days.
We see Nehemiah use strategic collaboration and morale-boosting leadership to expedite progress.
We are all made unique. We all possess different strengths. We should celebrate that truth. Not as a limitation but as a divine design. When we wisely rely on one another, we don't shrink ourselves—we elevate others. And in doing so, we move further, faster, and bring greater glory to God and His wonderfully diverse creation.
So let me ask:
Is there someone you need to call to help move a project across the finish line?
Is there someone who could use your expertise today?
Take time to reflect. Evaluate your strengths. And ask God to show you how to steward them—and share them—for His glory.
-Mark
