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As the Bible-In-A-Year study comes to a close, I am left reflecting on all that God has done in the past year. Through the small group I am a part of alone we have seen answered prayers, fellowship blossom into friendship, increased discernment, restored relationships, healing, and the Lord call us deeper into worship and service of Him.
Growth has never been more exponential than in this setting. It is glaringly obvious why the first church believed in studying the Word intently and "having all things in common" (Acts 2:44) while doing so.
Sharing your life with other believers is life-changing.
Sharing your life with other believers is life-changing. Small groups allow for vulnerability, support, orthodox discussion, and encouragement in the faith.
The author of Hebrews encourages his readers in this manner:
"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." Hebrews 10:24-25
It is not too late in the year or in life, to be intentional in meeting together. The Lord has rich rewards waiting for you in your relationship with Him and with others.
However, meeting together is not easy. Meeting together, and having all things in common, requires more than just occupying the same room. It requires honesty about sins and struggles, an attitude of humility, and a willingness to confess. It
requires genuine investment in other people and the kind of compassion in the face of busyness and diversity that is nearly unheard of in our world.
Each of these uncomfortable inconveniences are more than worth it. The richness of community is indescribable.
The richness of community is indescribable.
My encouragement to you this month is to find a place to plug in if you are not already involved in one of these communities. Meet together, and do not give up when it gets difficult. May the Lord multiply the fruit in your life and the joy in your heart the way he has for me!
--In Christ, Lilly Hunter Student Minister