And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
We are called to live a life of faith. I don’t know about you, but I never received a full set of step-by-step instructions, detailing every twist and turn of my life when I got started. I never got the full map. All I’ve ever had are small slices of the details. The rest, God has asked me to trust Him with in faith. And sometimes, the faith steps seem more like LEAPS.
But God designed community—relationship—to be a place where we find courage and support to take those leaps of faith. When we gather together in His name, according to Matthew 18:20, Jesus Himself is present with us. When we circle up and invite Him into the center, He always comes.
Take a moment to reflect on what Jesus brings when we gather together: comfort in hardship, light in darkness, wisdom for decisions, power for our purpose and strength for our resolve.
Think about a time when your community encouraged you to step out in faith. Perhaps it was pursuing a new career path, starting a ministry, or making a significant life decision. Reflect on how their support and prayers helped you overcome doubts and fears. There really is a collective power in our unity in Christ.
In community, we are not alone in our journey of faith. Together, we spur each other on toward love and good deeds, building each other up in faith. Let’s continue to embrace the support of our community, trusting that God works through our unity to accomplish His purposes.