We are Better in Pairs

“Then Jesus called the Twelve to Him and began to send them out two by two, giving them authority over unclean spirits.” Mark 6:7 BSB

In a story titled “A Valentine’s Day Workout to Improve Run Performance,” published by Runner’s World Monday, the writer said: Whether you’re training for spring and summer races, want to improve your pace during weekly runs, or you’re having trouble staying motivated through winter, running and exercising with a partner can help you reach your goals. In fact, research shows that having a workout buddy, whether or not they are your romantic partner, can help you make more gains in training. A 2023 meta-analysis of 19 studies published in Human Kinetics Journal found that people who work out with a group kick up their workout intensity and persistence of effort more than those who train solo. This motivation factor actually has a name—the Köhler effect—and it describes the proven group dynamic that when people work with others on a difficult task, they work harder.“There is so much more motivation when people come in for semi-private training than when they come in as an individual,” Noam Tamir, C.S.C.S., founder and CEO of TS Fitness in New York City tells Runner’s World. “There is better accountability and people have more fun.”

And you know, when it comes to accountability and working hard, the Bible tells us that Jesus called the twelve disciples to Him “and then began to send them out two by two” with a list of instructions to carry out the work ahead of them. Work that was made all the easier for each of them by having a partner alongside to encourage and strengthen them. Going out “two by two” also helped to ensure that, as individuals, they were rightly explaining and strictly adhering to the word of truth so they could present themselves as unashamed workmen. 

So if you’re trying to do this Christian life solo and wondering why you’re not making much progress, find other believers that will come alongside and help you my friend. As the example of the disciples shows, we were meant to work together and accomplish so much more when we do so. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example the disciples gave us of the best way to fulfill the Great Commission. Help us to follow that example so that we would have a bigger impact on the Kingdom. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!