We’re all capable of doing many different things. But when everyone tries to do everything then often nothing gets done as well as it could be done. Division of labor frees us to excel in our unique calling rather than being spread too thin trying to do it all.
For instance, not everyone on a team plays the same position. Games are won when each player owns and excels in his particular position. Of course, there is mutual support, and players fill in for each other whenever they can. But there’s still a clear division of labor that allows each player to know how to best focus his time and attention at any given point in the game. Things become chaotic and less effective when individuals don’t have define roles to play.
And this remains true throughout our life and relationships.
For example, when starting a business, we naturally have to wear every hat needed. But eventually we have to divide the labor up in order to grow. Perhaps we hire an accountant or administrative assistant to help out with various tasks so that we’re free to keep our focus on the heart of the business.
Likewise, in marriage, we might partner with our wife to decide who focuses on what to provide and care for the many needs of the home. Our homes are less likely to thrive when everyone is trying to do everything.
While division is often cast in a negative light, we see God has divided the body into various parts for the benefit of the whole. And while the parts are all different and uniquely crafted to do certain things well, one part is not better than the other just because it has a different role to play.
In the end, we become ineffective in our calling when we try to do it all.
Let a meaningful division of labor free you to focus on the unique contributions God has called you to make.
