Monday: Prioritize Community

Big Idea: Whatever your reason is for not being in a small group, it's bad.

Scripture: Hebrews 10:23-25 (ESV) 23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.  24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works,  25 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.

God’s will for you is a commitment to gather with brothers and sisters in Christ.  The writer of Hebrews encourages us not only to hold tightly to our faith but also to encourage each other towards love and good deeds by coming together. Being part of a community is incredibly important, because it helps us to stay strong in our faith when we are successful and when we are going through trials. It’s easy to overlook meeting together, especially when life is busy, but neglecting this aspect of our spiritual life can lead to isolation and a weakened faith.  It makes me laugh when the writer says, “as is the habit of some”, because he is throwing shade on people that are sketchy in their group and church attendance, while encouraging them not be consistent.  

God designed us to live in fellowship with one another. Community provides accountability, support, and encouragement. When we meet regularly with fellow believers, we have the opportunity to both give and receive from each other, strengthening the entire body of Christ. Whatever your other commitments may be, they should not come at the cost of losing this precious time with your faith family.  I truly believe this, and you are welcomed to test me on this statement today:   If you commit to being a consistent part of a group, God will reward and bless you.  

Action Step: Identify one thing you can adjust in your schedule this week to prioritize joining or participating in a small group.  And if you are already signed up, PRE-DECIDE that you are going to attend group even when it is inconvenient.  

Song of the Day: “We Are” by Kari Jobe. We Are (New Radio Version)