What I’m about to say is a very simple concept. It’s an illustration I’ve heard from various sources.

I think it’s very profound. And biblical.

When it’s cold outside and you put on a pair of gloves, it helps your hands stay warm. But sometimes you fingers get cold because they are separated from each other.

But if you put on a pair of mittens, your fingers stay warmer. Why? Because your fingers warm each other.

That’s like God’s people.

We may not make each other physically warmer—you know, unless the thermostat is set too high or unless you’re one of those super-huggy types. But you (a) are better together, and (b) contribute to each other’s well-being so that you’re in better working condition.

1 Peter 4:10 says, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” It implies not only serving others, but serving others alongside others.

Have you ever tried to use your fine motor skills with frozen fingers? It doesn’t go very well. You need warmth.

In a similar way, God’s people (a) are better together, and (b) contribute to each other’s well-being when they serve others alongside others. As a result we’re in better at being the hands and feet of Christ in a world that needs him so desperately much.

Today, adopt a mitten mindset. As God’s people we are better together.

By Matthew Ruttan

–“Up!” is published 5 days a week (Monday to Friday) and returns on May 20th.
–Bible quote are from the NIV.