Imagine a society in which camaraderie overshadows competition. Empowerment overrules control. In such a culture people would be encouraged and supported to become all they were created to be and accomplish all they were fashioned to achieve. A culture of unity rather than division. Inclusivity rather than exclusion. A world which gleans its power and strength through the harmony of its people.
Such a culture is attainable through COMMUNITY! A circle of family, friends, or associates who possess a common interest in one another’s well being. A place where people feel loved, appreciated and approved of.
You were designed to be in community. From the foundations of the world God said, “It is not good for man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18). People are designed to come together to help, encourage, support, and empower one another. “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:12).The benefits of being in relationship with others within community are indisputable.
Start impacting the world today by being an influencer in your own backyard. Never underestimate the impact your life can have upon another. Choose to be influential in someone else’s life…Right Now! Connect with your family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, and faith groups. What is preventing you from reaching out to others? Pride, fear, or simple complacency? All of these are mere tactics of deception purposed to keep communities from becoming dynamic.
Take the focus off yourself for just a moment…there are people all around who NEED you. You have the ability to be a cheerleader for someone who is diligently working towards a goal, an encourager to someone who is feeling discouraged, a helper to someone who is weak, or simply a friend with a listening ear for someone who is burdened.
Finding purpose in your everyday life is all about being a servant to others, looking beyond your own needs, wants and desires, and focusing on helping others succeed! Jesus came not to be served, but to serve (Matthew 20:28). Purpose is discovered in community. Your unique gifts and talents will surface as you begin to extend a loving hand to others.
Yes! It will take sacrifice. It will take time, energy and resources. All these things, though seemingly valuable, are actually useless until you assign them a purpose.
Venturing down the winding roads of life with all its valleys, mountains, oceans and rivers, can be a lonely and often a dangerous road without community.
Not only does community help you to look beyond yourself and your circumstances, it also allows you the opportunity to partner with God and be a blessing to someone else. When you give of yourself and your resources, God is the one who brings the return. He will always multiply what you give Him. He multiplied 2 fish and 5 loaves of bread from a boys lunch to feed the multitudes (Mark 6:41). Now that is impact!
Being in community with others, is a precious gift. Open your heart and allow God to lead and guide you towards a community. You are blessed to be a blessing for God’s glory! If you are already fortunate enough to be part of a strong community, be challenged today to invite newcomers to join you!
-Lucy Ann
Challenge Question:
Are you willing to give of yourself to strengthen others and become part of a community?
Be sure to “Join the Team” so we can stay connected!
Elaine. says
That was a great reading. Lined up with my pastor’s message. We have a lot of life groups at church. A life group is a bible study before service or after service. This gives you the opportunity to build and grow relationships with other believers. Having a church family is so important. It helps you stand out in faith and share the word of God with neighbors family and friends. God bless you and your family Lucy Ann.
Lucy Ann says
Elaine
It is a blessing to hear you are connected in community with your church family! It definitely makes life a brighter place when you are surrounded by people who genuinely care about you. Blessings to you and yours this Christmas season!