If No one is an Island, Why are you navigating in life alone?
The island scene is encamped by water, so no one gets a chance to peruse it without notice. The visitor can be seen from miles away. Yes, the view is more cursory the further they are from you, but once access is granted, there is still more to witness. Too often times, our thoughts go to the barriers to keep intruders out, but what happens when we start painting everyone with the same broad brush, because we have been hurt? Do we keep out the ones who were sent to aide us on this journey? The ones who will keep us accountable and present as we walk out this purposeful life.
I consider myself an ambivert, one who has both introvert and extrovert tendencies. Being the only child for the first ten years of my life made me a lot more comfortable in alone settings. As time has evolved, I realized how much I enjoy the company of others, but I still find myself stealing away.
God uniquely orchestrated a blueprint designed for us to not plant our flag on an uninhabited island. In many instances, what is found in community is the acts God uses to mature us. We find out the toe-stepping realities in our interactions with others. We find out how selfish, territorial, and unforgiving we are when we depart the island and go ashore.
Group Projects are always a sobering measuring tool. It is this oversized mirror of our interacting ability. Everyone comes in with their processing and view on what the finish will look like. Although, it may be a big percentage of your grade, some will have a more vested interest than others. How do we navigate through personalities and behaviors that are different from ours?
I remember walking in island-mode for a number of years. If I was doing a group project and someone did not do what they said they would do, I would ask very little questions and just get it done. I remember sleeping about 15-16 hours straight one time from exhaustion. My body literally shut down, because I was taking on tasks that people either did not want to do or simply stopped. An interesting question by God inquired if I could be used to bring out the best in others and not feel the need to take on the task? Did I understand that there were, at times, other ways to carry the task out? Thereby, encouraging others to cultivate their best effort.
People would say, “Well, I can’t do it like you.” As those comments came, I began to understand more and more the importance of The Body and how much all parts are needed. God did not give everything to one person. That would leave us with pride on steroids. I truly believe God makes mosaics with our lives and gives His Sons & Daughters a piece to contribute to His Masterpiece.
If we are real honest, it is easier to just do [it], but do we really get the Spiritual Fruit additions when we do not go through the process of operating as a functional community? It is the being made part as respecting our uniqueness that fosters the growth to keep the unity of the brethren.
Betrayal and disappointment are real factors in leaving the island. However, that is too much power to give the Enemy by placing yourself in an isolated place to never be hurt again. Not only does it hinder our growth; it also impedes our ability to be loved and give love.
For years, we have watched shows like “Survivor” and to be the last one standing, but what is triumph without having someone to share it with? This culture tells us that the climb is lonely, but we can choose to yoke ourselves with those who are climbing as well. There is a sustainable and stellar strength in being among those with parallel vision and who are vessels being used by God.
Divine Work & Pray:
Work: Jot down in your journal concerning your thoughts about the title. Have you become an island because of hurt and disappointment? Have you ever prayed concerning those who will walk with you?
Pray: Father God, to the One who protects and graces us to have flourishing relationships. May no disappointment speak louder than You ordering my steps. You did not create me to be an island. Thank you for the discernment to see who comes nigh my dwelling. I welcome the fruit-bearing opportunity you give with Your Sons & Daughters. Make us sensitive to our roles as Brother & Sister Keepers. There is no failure in You. Make us mindful of this Truth as we interact with the brethren. May You get glory out of our trek from the island to the shore.
