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Both brick and stone have been popular building materials for thousands of years.
Yet in scripture God values working with stones, which represent individuality. Bricks require conformity, which leads to bondage.
The Tower of Babel, for instance, was constructed with brick. The builders were eager for recognition and power. The result was confusion and separation (Genesis 11:3). And what student of the Bible can ignore Israel's enslavement in Egypt? Four hundred years of brick-making represented bondage.
In contrast, stones are a symbol of God's authority and glory in scripture. Abraham, Jacob, and Joshua built altars of stone. Twelve differently-colored gem stones were set in the priest's ephod. Stone was used to construct the temple in Jerusalem. Our Lord even referred to Jesus as "the Chief Cornerstone" (Ephesians 2:20).
 Stones are unique; bricks are identical
Each stone is individually distinctive. Bricks, however, are consistently alike.
The raw materials for brick are ground into fine consistency, often screened and pulverized twice to ensure uniformity. The wetted and tinted mixture is poured into molds. This way when an entire batch of bricks is dried and fired, each brick is consistent in color and shape, allowing them to be stacked quickly and neatly in symmetrical designs.
On the other hand, no two stones are exactly alike. Stones must be individually set in a structure, making a one-of-a kind whole.
People are not made from molds
Likewise, God did not use a cookie cutter mold when He created human beings. Instead, He made each person to have individual strengths. Differences are by design.
Those differences are not to divide us, but rather designed to fill various roles. Each person's strengths bring value to the whole.
But when we expect uniformity in people - in the way they approach a project, or react, or manage responsibility - then differences are condemned, not valued. Instead of unity, differences bring division and bondage.
Two sets of expectations produce completely different results as you interact with people. - The "Brick Method." Label a person according to a standard "mold" and judge where he comes up short.
- The "Stone Method." Value an individual's unique differences and understand how he can contribute to the whole.
We know from scripture which approach God uses. Which will you choose?
Growth Point Each person's uniqueness offers strength.
Scripture There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men. (1 Corinthians 12:4-6)
Prayer Points
- What kind of a "brick mold," or set of expectations, do I use when interacting with others?
- Name three key people in my life or work and the unique strengths they offer.
- In what ways can expectations of conformity stunt my work team or my family?
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