Blessings of Fellowship
TODAY'S SCRIPTURE
Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. - (Hebrews 10:24-25 NLT)
THOUGHTS FOR TODAY
When we isolate ourselves from others because of depression, fear, anger, or whatever, we rob ourselves of many blessings. Hiding behind that wall we've built prevents us from living the life God has designed for us.
This week we've talked about a few ways to start tearing down the wall, brick by brick. Another step that can motivate us is recognizing some of the blessings we lose when we are not in fellowship. Today, we'll simply look at a few of the many good things that fellowship with other believers can provide.
CONSIDER THIS . . .
This week (and beyond), meditate on scriptures that describe the benefits of fellowship. Here are a few examples:
Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results. (James 5:16 NLT)
Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. (Hebrews 10:24 NLT)
Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins. Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay. God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another. (1 Peter 4:8-10 NLT)
Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. (Galatians 6:2 NLT)
Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 NLT)
As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend. (Proverbs 27:17 NLT)
Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. (Colossians 3:16 NLT)
Consider what each of these passages tell us about fellowship. Think about what blessings you could receive from others and how you could even minister to others. This kind of fellowship is not something to fear. Rather, with God's help, it is something to embrace.
PRAYER
Lord, I realize since I've been hiding in isolation, I've been missing not only the comfort of help and encouragement from others but also opportunities to reach out to them. To become more other-focused. Please help me begin to change that. In Jesus' name . . .
THESE THOUGHTS WERE DRAWN FROM . . .
Understanding Depression: Overcoming Despair through Christ by Donald G. Miles, Ed.D.
This study deals with depression, a condition common throughout the world, and is suggested for use in support groups and Christian counseling.
• Understanding what depression is and how it affects relationships
• Understanding the relationship between depression and spiritual warfare
• Ways to fight depression with scripture, prayer, and mutual support
• Understanding the special prayer needs of depressed persons
• Bible-based coping skills
• How to pray for healing and what to expect
• Serves as a powerful evangelistic tool by providing a way to minister to people's felt needs and then lead them to Christ
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