In our circles of community, we find solace in sharing our struggles with one another. Bearing each other’s burdens was God’s idea, because He knew from the beginning that going life alone is a recipe for disaster. We need a circle to support and encourage us in times of difficulty. Whether it’s a personal hardship, a family crisis, or a spiritual battle, our community is there to lift us up. Sometimes even words to pray fail us. That’s when we need a friend and faith-partner to agree in prayer on our behalf. When we struggle, we need solidarity.

Consider a time when you shared a burden with someone in your community. How did their support and prayers impact you? Reflect on the blessing of being able to lean on others for strength and comfort during challenging seasons.

And once again, reflect on a time or a person that YOU were able to support in their time of struggle. We are both the recipients of this grace of relationship, and extenders of it ourselves.

In fact, few things get our eyes off our own problems quicker than choosing to support someone else in theirs. This is the transformational power of circles. We gain support; we give support. That’s the deal. And what an incredible gift it is.

Lean into yours today. If you don’t have the circle you think you need, seek one out. A new level of care and support is one decision away. As we follow Christ’s example of love and compassion, let’s put our calling into radical, intentional motion. Today, seek opportunities to comfort and support your brothers and sisters in Christ.

Sharing our struggles in a circle is one of the most profound ways we are known, loved, supported and healed. You were made for it. It’s how God deepens our empathy and strengthens the bonds of love in our lives. He does it in circles. So, share your struggle and your strength, today.