The Importance of Community
In the book Bowling Alone, author Robert Putnam said the greatest social epidemic in American life is loneliness. This statement may resonate with many Americans who feel alienated, lonely, and depressed, and who go home every night to watch T.V. and eat on couches by themselves.
But is this really the life we should – or could — be living? One of the most important things in a person’s life is the people we do life with. The world tells us that we can do it on our own. So for many of us, our work and demands and our kids take all of our time and energy, so then we don’t think we have enough time for relationships and for spending time in community. But we need to make the time.
God wants community for us. The scripture is clear: If we want to experience God’s presence, we are seek Him through His word, through the power of His Holy Spirit, and also through relationships with other people. More often than not, the way you get hugs from God, and he way you feel His presence is from people because He lives inside of people that love Him.
The truth is, God wants to help you in your life. He wants to listen to you. But often He’s not going to show up in some visible angelic form. He’s going to show up in a friend, a brother or a sister.
Jesus said, “A new commandment I give unto you, that you love one another even as I have loved you.” And then He said, “It’s by this the world will know that the Father has sent the Son.” This is how we love one another, which takes time and commitment
So, are you ready for the “game-changer?” If you are I encourage you to start or join a small group. For many of you this is a big step, but it will make a world of difference. But I do whatever it takes in your schedule to block off one night, three hours a week, and get connected with some other people. It’ll revolutionize your life.
Download the Free MP3 message How to Experience Authentic Community from the series True Spirituality.
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