The Power of Sitting Side by Side

How do you sit when you go to a restaurant? Many families choose their seats without much thought, yet the way we sit can reveal something deeper about relationships and connection.

Not long ago, I was dining at one of my favorite local spots when I bumped into a couple I know through Upward Sports. They were grandparents of one of our regular participants. As we chatted about their grandson's experience with wrestling, something caught my attention.

They were sitting side by side. Most people would assume they'd sit across from one another, but they chose to sit together, facing the same direction.

Which is interesting to me since many television shows and movies show people sitting side by side at home and restaurants because of the camera angles, but we often do not sit side by side when there are just two of us.

Maybe its because we want to stare into one another’s eyes. Maybe its because we need the elbow room. Regardless, their arrangement got me thinking.

It wasn’t the seating arrangement that stood out, but the deeper significance of their choice. In a world that constantly pushes for equality, we’re more divided than ever—over issues of race, politics, identity, and more. But in that moment, I was reminded of something deeper.

I didn’t think about the usual “we are all one in Christ” line. Instead, I realized that God has already structured us for unity—especially in marriage.

In Genesis, God created Eve from Adam’s side—not his head to rule over him, nor his feet to be beneath him, but from his side as a companion, a helper. This beautiful act was a symbol of how husband and wife should stand together—side by side, equal in partnership, supporting and encouraging one another.

Genesis 2:18 says, “The Lord God said, ‘It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.’”

In a world where power and control are often sought after, we must remember that our desire for dominance is part of our brokenness. Instead of seeking power, let’s seek peace. Seek forgiveness. Seek humility. Seek companionship, support, and encouragement.

Let’s come alongside each other and glorify God in all we do, working together for His good and perfect will.

Anyway, I was just thinking…