In the inspiring coliseum battle scene of the movie “Gladiator”, Maximus gives wise instructions to fellow warriors. “We will have a better chance of survival if we work together. Stay together. Stay close. Come together. Lock shields. As one.”
On foot, with minimal armor, they overcome the well-armored chariot fighters by following the directions of Maximus. They protect and rescue one another as they fight.
Most successful teams, businesses, families and relationships work together sacrificially with mutual respect and concern for one another. These qualities are key to effectively accomplishing goals.
Selfish manipulation, lack of sacrifice, holding grudges, unkind words, and so on, all hinder success. Why? The human body, mind and spirit were designed for peaceful harmonies releasing constructive creativity and problem solving.
We need each other’s differences to thrive. Kind words of truth and correction grow character. “I love you, I’m sorry, I forgive you, and thank you” generate life giving fire to our soul.
These words are commonly heard in successful relationships. They promote staying together, coming close and locking shields. The physical body and mind flourishes in an atmosphere of love and acceptance.
God’s words and presence overcome the world’s negative words and actions that war against my soul. This is how I lock shields with God and stay close in relationships.
I’ve learned there’s pain and difficulty in this process of being “as one”. But I want to do more than just survive painful associations. I pray my life, as well as yours, is one that prospers with unity in relationships as we choose to lock shields as one.
Continue to love each other with true Christian love. Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it! Don’t forget about those in prison. Suffer with them as though you were there yourself. Share the sorrow of those being mistreated, as though you feel their pain in your own bodies. Give honor to marriage, and remain faithful to one another in marriage… be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, “I will never fail you. I will never forsake you.” That is why we can say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper, so I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” (NLT: Hebrews 13: 1 – 6)