Strength in Numbers
God has given each of us certain things He wants us to accomplish in life. They may be specific responsibilities or callings in our respective families, in the church, and/or in our community. My calling as a pastor, husband, or father may be very different from your circumstances and your calling. But while each of us has our own unique calling, I think Scripture makes clear that, in most cases, we're to pursue these things WITH OTHERS. We are to be in community with other believers even as we pursue God's will for our lives.
In Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, it says, "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." God created us as people made for relationship, partnership,and collaboration. Throughout the scriptures God speaks of His people as a community that accomplishes more together than apart. God did not create us as isolated individuals, each simply seeking to achieve our own goals. Our success often depends upon our interdependence. Like being part of a team or band. This is in part why He established the Church to empower believers to spread the gospel and support one another.
I Corinthians 12:12 says, "The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all of its parts are many, they form one body." In verses 26-27, it says, "If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. Now you are the Body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." During difficult times it’s critical that we are walking in fellowship with other believers. When a crisis hits, it’s overwhelming to face it alone. But if we have cultivated strong relationships, we can find comfort and support from those around us.
If you’re not a part of the body or don’t have a close group of Christian friends, you’re missing out on one of God's greatest blessings. You're also in danger of falling into temptation and sin. I Peter 5:8 says “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” It’s easier for the enemy to attack us when we’re alone, when we've stopped coming to church or neglected fellowship . . . as opposed to when we're in community with one another. Life is challenging enough as it is. Don't go it alone! Link your life to others who are walking with the Lord and seeking God’s will in their lives. And, of course, bind yourself to Christ. As Ecclesiastes says, a cord of three strands is not easily broken.
Pastor Darren
