In its Michael Scott heyday, the TV show The Office was really, really good. One of my favorite clips from an early episode is when Michael coins the phrase, "Win-Win-Win." Rather than just two people winning on some sort of compromise of inter-office politics, this was the ultimate victory for everybody involved. Of course, comedic irony (as you can see in the clip) usually determined that the win-win-win was actually the most ridiculous of options. Still, it sounded good and was quite entertaining.
In my Bible reading today, I came across a realistic win-win-win.
First, I think it's safe to say that we all want joy in our lives. Given the option between joy and pain, or even joy and just fine, most sane people are going to choose joy. Joy is what we chase on a daily basis. Sometimes we're dead wrong about how to obtain it, but it is what we want. Joy is good, but it's not just good for ourselves. Writes Paul in Philemon:
"Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the saints." (1:7)
The lesson here is that joy multiplies. When you have joy in your life, you share that joy - you "refresh the hearts" of the saints around you. Your joy brings them joy. Their joy brings joy to more still. Joy multiplies. Who is best to be around first thing in the morning? Someone with joy, or someone with complaints? Which makes your day better? Which helps you help others make their day better? Be joyful for you, but also be joyful for others. It's a win-win-win.
Later, in Hebrews, Paul writes, "But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness." (3:13)
We think about encouraging others because they need it. Encouragement is considered a giving act, something selfless to provide a boost to someone in need. Here's the thing, though. Paul is saying that when it's you in need, encourage others. The "encourager" benefits as much as the "encouragee." It is difficult to be "hardened" when softening others. I can't be joyless when providing encouragement. In essence, this selfless act improves the self's soul. Win-win-win.
Most people want to save their own lives. A few want to save the world. What Paul wants you to know is that by doing one well, you'll usually accomplish both.
Go get some joy. Encourage somebody.
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