06/14/2026
Paddling Together: Finding Our Why in a Divided group.
Today, we gather not just as individuals but as a vibrant community, that is our group. Our world is often marked by division and discord, even within our group, Yet, I believe God is calling us to something greater. Inspired by the principle of “Finding Your Why,” we can explore how we can unite under a common purpose. If we’re all in the same boat, let us paddle in the same direction.
Before diving deeper, let’s unpack what it means to “find your why.” Let’s define our “why” as the core belief or purpose that drives us. It’s the reason we get out of bed in the morning, the motivation behind our actions, and the guiding principle for our decisions.
Finding your why involves introspection and reflection. It’s about asking questions like:
- Why do I truly believe in what I do?
- Why am I passionate about serving others?
- Why do I want to make an impact in my community?
In the context of our group our “why” can be rooted in the Great Commission. Matthew 28:19-20 reminds us that our mission is to “go and make disciples of all nations.” This call invites us to look beyond ourselves and consider how we can fulfill God’s purpose together.
Yet, we must acknowledge the reality of division. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 1:10, “I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you.” The early church faced challenges much like our group today.
We live in a time where opinions can quickly become points of contention. Differences in interpretation, worship styles, and priorities can create rifts. But let us remember that our focus should not be on what separates us but on what unites us: the love of Christ and our commitment to His mission.
In Ephesians 4:3, we are encouraged to make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. Now, picture this: a boat full of paddlers. If some paddle left while others paddle right, we will spin in circles instead of moving forward.
The symbolism here is powerful. When we paddle together in the same direction, we harness our collective strength. It’s not just about individual strokes; it’s about synchronizing our efforts. Each paddler contributes to the momentum, propelling the boat toward its destination. Unity is essential for progress.
Think of the beauty of diverse gifts within the group as Paul describes in 1 Corinthians 12:12-14. Each one of us has a unique role to play. When we come together, our differences can create beautiful harmony, strengthening our shared mission.
So, how do we paddle together in the same direction? First, we must ask ourselves: “What can I contribute to our shared mission?” We can engage in prayer, seek understanding, and foster conversations that bridge our differences.
Let’s consider practical steps to unite our efforts. Romans 15:5-6 reminds us to be of one mind and voice, glorifying God. This means reaching out to one another, participating in community outreach, and joining together in small groups where we can learn from each other.
As we live out our “why,” let’s remember that our mission is not merely a task, but a way of life. Philippians 2:2 calls us to be like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.
Imagine a group where every member is aligned with a shared vision, working hand in hand to reflect God’s love. This is not just a dream; it can be our reality. Let’s commit to initiatives that align with our mission, serve our community, and exemplify God’s love.
As we reflect on this calling to paddle in the same direction, let us remember that we are stronger together. God has placed us in this boat for a reason. Our collective “why” is to glorify Him and share His love with the world, regardless of our differences.
Let us unite, embracing our diversity and paddling together toward the mission God has set before us. May our group be a shining beacon of hope, radiating His love in our community.
