Jesus not only rescues us from the penalty of our sins by what He did on Calvary’s cross, but He can save us from the power of sin in our daily lives if we’ll abide with Him, enjoying His presence and counsel. The things that have a grip on us: habits, addictions, anger, lust, financial struggles, health issues--He can free us from all these things and give us new life!
Spiritual formation can happen in many different settings--from large, corporate worship events to the silence and solitude of paddling down a river without a man-made object in site. I have found that one of the best places for this process of “ongoing salvation” to happen is in a small group of trusted friends.
I am part of a group that meets each week to read and wrestle with God’s Word together, share our struggles and needs, apply God’s truths to our lives and lovingly hold each other accountable. As we do these things God continues to mold and shape us into the image of His Son. A spiritual "Band of Brothers" and sisters, building strong and lasting relationships and continually growing to think and act like Jesus. Everyone needs what a group like this can offer.
We find this description of the first Christ-followers in the book of Acts:
"They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common, being one in heart and mind. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved." Acts 2:42-47 (NIV)
Christians were never intended to live and grow and relate to God in isolation, flying solo, playing the role of spiritual Lone Ranger. We were meant to pursue God in community. The greatest command is to "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength", but the second command to "love our neighbor as ourselves" requires community. Someone recently reminded me, "We cannot have impact without contact".
We need to connect with God, connect with other believers, and connect to people who have yet to accept the forgiveness, freedom and life that Jesus alone offers. Do you have a "Band of Brothers" (and/or sisters) to help you become all that God dreams you to be?
~ Father, help me to realize I can never be what you want me to be without the help of others. Thank you for my group of friends that start each week sharing our needs and concerns, praying for each other and studying the Bibles together. Amen.
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2 comments:
Well written article.
Thank you, Wendy.
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