Circles Shape Us

Ephesians 4:2-6 (NIV)

“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”

Where else do you have to actually learn to be humble and gentle than when you’re put into the laboratory experiment of friendship? Alone, you have no need for humility or gentleness. Patience isn’t really a thing, when you are just alone with you. But these essential qualities to a meaningful, purposeful life are cultivated and grow in relationship.

Interestingly, the Apostle Paul is encouraging us in our circles to become ONE. One in body and spirit, one in hope, one in faith and devotion to Jesus, one in our public expression of discipleship to Christ. And over it all, through it all, the Sovereign God—our ONE Father, who guides and directs us in all truth.

Circles shape us. And that is incredibly good news. Left to our own isolation, we would grow stagnant and selfish. But in community, we receive the vibrancy of life as God intended for us to live: together. As one.

Reflect on how your community has shaped your character and faith journey. Consider the ways in which God uses relationships to refine and challenge us for His glory. Where can you grow in your oneness today? What selflessness can you pursue? In what ways can you step toward unity in the spirit of Christ? Those interactions in community sharpen us spiritually and emotionally. It is how we are enriched in every good work.

In community, we receive both encouragement and correction, guidance and accountability. Through these interactions, God molds us into the image of Christ and equips us for His service. Embrace the sharpening process that happens in community, knowing that God uses these relationships to equip us for the work He has prepared for us to do.