Working Together for a Greater Purpose

If you’ve ever felt the nudge to collaborate rather than compete, even with those you don’t fully understand, you’re not alone. In Mark 9:38-40, the disciple John tells Jesus that he tried to stop someone from casting out demons in Jesus’ name because that person “was not following us.” Jesus replies, “Do not stop him… For the one who is not against us is for us.” That response encourages a spirit of openness and unity, reminding us that people who are genuinely working for good, even if they’re outside our immediate circle, share a common purpose. It’s a notion that resonates well beyond the biblical context and into our workplaces, organizations, and communities.

We often find ourselves in professional or personal environments where people do things differently than we do. Maybe they don’t follow the same procedures, or they haven’t joined our particular group. Our initial reaction might be to see them as competition, adversaries, or simply “not one of us.” This mindset can be prevalent in industries where hierarchy, tradition, or pride in one’s own methods creates a barrier. Yet Jesus’ words challenge that mindset because anyone contributing to a positive purpose, especially one aligned with our core values, is effectively on our side.

As a life and business transitional coach who works predominantly with blue-collar employees and entrepreneurs, I’ve seen firsthand how we sometimes close ourselves off to outside ideas. We might believe that our ways are the best or only ways to get a job done. We might even worry that partnering with a competing business or a different department will undermine our success or slow us down. The biblical passage shows us that instead of halting someone who’s doing something good, we should examine the bigger picture. If our mission is to create positive outcomes, then anyone who helps achieve that mission is playing on the same team, whether they punch the same clock as we do or not.

This perspective is valuable for leaders at every level. Whether you’re a manager at a construction site, an owner of a manufacturing firm, or an emerging entrepreneur, remember that “the one who is not against us is for us.” Collaboration has a powerful impact. When you join forces with people driven by a vision that complements yours, you expand your reach and accelerate results. Of course, true collaboration requires a foundation of trust and mutual respect. However, the reward is often well worth the effort when you realize you can achieve more together than apart.

The passage also addresses a common insecurity we experience in leadership: fear of losing control. John’s protective stance for trying to stop a stranger from casting out demons reflects the worry that someone else might be stepping on his territory or overshadowing his role. Jesus reframes the situation. If good is happening, why undermine it? When we curb our fears of being outshined, we open ourselves to innovative ideas, brand-new skill sets, and a broader sense of unity.

In today’s competitive market, especially in labor industries, it can be easy to see other professionals as obstacles to our progress. Yet embracing a cooperative spirit often leads to unexpected benefits. For example, if you’re a general contractor, forging alliances with other contractors in different specialties can attract more clients because together you offer more comprehensive solutions. If you run a small manufacturing company, collaborating with a nearby supplier might improve your turnaround time. The key lies in recognizing that mutual success can go hand-in-hand with your own growth.

Keeping this in mind, how do we start shifting from a “me versus them” approach to a mindset of unity and collaboration? Let’s look at three steps you can begin practicing right away to create a more inclusive, forward-thinking environment, whether you’re at work, in a community group, or even in your family.

3 Steps To Get You Started:

Step 1: Recognize Shared Values Sometimes it’s hard to see another person or organization as being on the same side because we focus on superficial differences. Maybe they use a different communication style or wear a different uniform. Ask yourself: “Are we ultimately aiming for the same goal?” Perhaps it’s high-quality service for the customer, a safe work environment, or a positive community impact. When we pause to identify these shared values, we’ll often find more common ground than we initially realized. A practical way to explore shared values is to have a face-to-face conversation, if possible, where you ask open-ended questions about their vision and mission. For example: “What drives you in your work?” or “What is your ultimate goal for your organization?” As soon as you discover you share a core belief, it becomes simpler to view them as an ally rather than a rival. This shift in perception can dissolve your skepticism and open a new space for empathy, trust, and collaboration.

Step 2: Encourage Collaboration and Open Communication Jesus didn’t say, “They’re with us, so let’s just let them do their thing in isolation.” Instead, he implied that those who do mighty works in his name cannot easily turn against him. It’s a reminder to keep communication open. Once you recognize that someone aligns with your values, the next step is to foster collaboration. Start with simple gestures. Maybe you invite their representative to sit in on a team meeting where you brainstorm ways to streamline production. Or you suggest a joint networking event where both sides can share expertise or resources. Communication should be consistent and honest. If there are concerns, address them upfront. Encourage open dialogue and feedback loops. This approach builds trust, helping you learn from each other’s mistakes and celebrate each other’s successes. Over time, you’ll see how a collaborative approach can elevate the workplace environment and drive innovation.

Step 3: Commit to Unity and Growth Once you’ve established a collaborative relationship, continue to nurture it. Unity isn’t a one-time event; it’s a long-term commitment. That means checking in regularly, discussing challenges openly, and finding new opportunities for growth together. If you’re a foreman or a team lead, highlight everyday wins that come from working together. Small winning moments where someone stepped in to help a different team or shared a new strategy that saved time are great conversation starters. Make sure everyone sees and feels how unity improves the entire workforce. This recognition fosters a cycle: collaboration leads to success, which encourages more collaboration. Also, don’t forget to celebrate differences. People who bring diverse perspectives and approaches can spark creativity and keep your organization from becoming stagnant. Sure, it takes courage to allow room for “outsiders,” but the benefits are well worth the leap of faith as it expands problem-solving capacities, improves morale, and shares successful outcomes.

We each have an opportunity to reflect on whether we’re welcoming those who do positive work or trying to hinder them because they’re not part of our immediate circle. For many leaders, especially in demanding, hands-on fields like construction, manufacturing, or service trades, the day can feel like a constant battle for resources, clients, or recognition. Yet the foundational lesson of the passage is clear: if they’re not actively opposing you, they might just be your allies. Let’s translate that principle into our daily work and relationships, granting others the benefit of the doubt, staying open to fresh approaches, and seeking opportunities to form beneficial alliances.

In my coaching experience, adopting this mindset is transformative. When organizations and individuals embrace others who share similar values, they open doors to fresh learning and expand their influence. Real progress often unfolds when we move beyond rigid boundaries and explore collaborative possibilities. If you find yourself reluctant to engage with someone from a different background, ask yourself: Am I missing out on potential growth by holding on to my turf? Let the answer guide you toward a place of inclusion and curiosity.

If you are struggling with this concept, remember that Jesus’ response to John was one of gentle correction: “Do not stop him.” In modern terms, this might sound like, “Don’t shut them down just because they’re not inside your bubble.” True leadership is about recognizing that good is still good, even if it doesn’t originate within our own network. By extending the hand of partnership to those who do good work, you are stepping into a realm of shared vision and collective strength.

Accepting others who operate with similar intentions enhances your ability to serve effectively. Whether that’s delivering exceptional customer service, generating innovative ideas, or contributing to a stronger, more cohesive community, you don’t have to do it alone. Individuals who aren’t fighting against you can be an incredible source of aid, insight, and friendship. Allow yourself to embrace this truth and witness how your circle of influence grows for greater impact.

Disclaimer: This article has been drafted and composed as-is, at no cost and without compensation, for LT2 Coaching Ministry. All content is provided for educational and ministry purposes.