top of page
God Designed Us for Community
January 20, 2025
Hey Clawson Family!
Song:
Scripture:
Ecclesiastes 4:12 (NLT)
“A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.”
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
Devotional:
From the very beginning, God designed us to live in community. When He created Adam, He said, “It is not good for the man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18). This statement reveals that isolation is not part of God’s plan for us. We were made to be in relationship with Him and with one another.
In the New Testament, the early church exemplifies this beautifully. Acts 2:42-47 describes believers who devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer. They shared their lives, their struggles, and their resources. This sense of community not only fulfilled their practical needs but also nourished their souls, strengthening their faith and testimony to the world.
God calls us to this same life of community today. In a world where individualism is often celebrated, we can feel tempted to go through life alone—handling our struggles, celebrating our victories, and keeping our faith private. Yet, the Bible reminds us that growth happens best in the context of relationships. We need others to challenge us, pray for us, encourage us, and walk alongside us.
God never intended for us to live life alone. He designed us to thrive in community, surrounded by others who support, encourage, and challenge us to grow. Finding “your people” is essential because it strengthens you against the challenges of life. Who are the people God has placed in your life to stand back-to-back with you? If you don’t know yet, pray today for guidance to find those people.
Journal:
In your journal, list three people who encourage your faith journey and reach out to one of them this week with gratitude or encouragement. If you feel isolated, ask God to open doors to connect with the right community.
Training:
1. Reflect: Are there areas in your life where you’ve been isolating yourself? Consider how being part of a Christ-centered community could bring healing and encouragement.
2. Engage: Commit to being part of a small group, a ministry, or Bible study. These are places where authentic relationships can grow.
3. Encourage: Look for someone who may be feeling isolated and reach out to them. A simple act of kindness or inclusion can make a significant impact.
Lord, thank You for creating us for the community. Forgive us when we try to go through life on our own. Teach us to value the relationships You’ve placed in our lives. Help us to be intentional about building and nurturing a Christ-centered community where we can grow together in love and faith. Use us to encourage and support others, as You have called us to do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Take a moment this week to reconnect with someone in our church family or reach out to someone new. God designed us to walk this journey of faith together!
bottom of page