We Need Community
And let us consider how we may spur one another toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. (Hebrews 10:24-25)
We all have a need for community. God didn’t intend for us to live in isolation. He made us to desire relationships with others. The Bible has plenty to say about our need to belong. Hebrews 24 tells us Christians are to seek opportunities to inspire others to love and do good works. Faith is certainly a personal journey but to grow and mature our faith we need the encouragement and fellowship of others.
Worship is a major component in the life of the church community. You know, Jesus did preach to large crowds often. But Jesus prepared the apostles for ministry in a small group setting. The early church met in small “home” churches where connecting with each other and caring for each other were very important.
Small groups are places for Christians to gather for a purpose. God instructs that such gatherings provide encouragement. They are safe places for sharing, witnessing, and for providing and receiving comfort in times of need.
For me, Bible Study groups have been critical to my faith journey. God wants us to be invested in time with Him every day. We pray, use devotionals, listen to Christian music and such. But I found many years ago, the best way to unravel the mysteries of faith was to be in a deeper dive study with other curious friends.
Over the years, I’ve taken advantage of invitations to attend Adult Sunday School, be a part of Men’s Bible Study groups (meeting for wonderful breakfast and fellowship) and attending a few different styles of weeknight study groups. I believe the Bible to be the roadmap for life. Everything we need for godly living is in there – but I need help to read and navigate the map. Experience and wisdom of others in the groups I’ve attended have answered so many questions and opened my mind to so many new discoveries that have help form and shape my relationship with Jesus.
Small groups have blessed me with wonderful fellowship and spiritual encouragement. I’m thankful for the learning conversations and for the opportunities to share our burdens of life. I’m also grateful for the shared testimonies of God’s faithfulness and thankful for the prayer time we share.
Thank You, Lord, for the blessings You have bestowed on my life through the special groups with whom I have been able to make my life’s journey. You have provided me with more than I could ever have imagined. Thank You for surrounding me with people who always look out for one another. In Jesus’ precious name, AMEN.