June 9, 2025

Why Do I Need to Be in Community With Other Believers?

Grant Ethridge

Guest Devotional

The following is from the GROW series that focuses on the ability to move from a goal mindset to a grow mindset. Here, he uses community as an example:

God created us to live in community, not in isolation. Spiritual growth requires relational connections. God uses others to help us grow, and He uses us to help others grow. Hebrews 10:23-25 emphasizes the importance
of community:

“Let us hold on to the confession of our hope without wavering, since he who promised is faithful. And let us consider one another in order to provoke love and good works, not neglecting to gather together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day approaching.”

The focus is on “us,” “our,” and “together,” not “me.”

The Beginning of Community

From the start, God designed life to be lived in community. Genesis 2:18 states, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper corresponding to him.” Hebrews 10:25 highlights the need for encouragement, especially for persecuted Christians who faced severe trials. Despite suffering, they gathered to support each other. In contrast, Americans often avoid meeting due to selfishness. Relationships require presence, like the story of the boyfriend who sent daily letters, only for his girlfriend to marry the mailman. We need each other to stay strong in faith.

The Building of Community

Verse 23 warns against wavering, which cuts us off from community blessings. Relationships develop over time and require effort. Community means
doing life together. While you can’t choose your family, you can choose your friends. Paul’s letters mention numerous friends who supported him through various trials. Community involves time, energy, and forgiveness.

The Benefits of Community

Verse 24 explains that gathering and encouraging each other provokes love and good works. Church attendance is vital for spiritual health, offering motivation and support. Community helps reduce depression, boost immunity, lower cholesterol, and manage stress. Helen Keller said, “Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much.” Proverbs 27:17 states, “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” Christian community enhances personal growth and serves as a witness to the world. Jesus said, “By this the world will know you are my disciples if you love one another.” Building community is essential in a broken world.

For the complete article, visit: libertylive.church/why-do-i-need-to-be-in-community-with-other-believers

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