The Christian life was never intended to be a solitary one. Look back at the Book of Genesis, in the Garden of Eden, God specifically created Eve for the purpose of man not being alone. Jesus shared His life with twelve disciples and then taught them to share it with others. The early believers gathered together to break bread and share the living Word. What we do each week in church is an expression of shared belief in Jesus – His body, a community of faith that gains strength and courage through worship.
But a full and meaningful life of following Jesus is built on much more than one hour a week in church. It requires personal devotion and an interdependency with others in prayer, study, fellowship, and praise. In other words, the best way to follow and serve Jesus is in community.
Whether you’re widowed, single, divorced, or living in a blended family, God has a group for you, a place of intimate belonging. This cluster of believers is a smaller version of the church, or we could say the church is a larger expression of the family unit. However we view it, the purpose is to be a place for love, acceptance, prayer, and to celebrate the communion of Jesus among us. Who is your family, your community of faith, other than the larger church you attend?
Finding time to pray as a family beyond grace at meals is an important discipline. To share our hearts, burdens, and triumphs is important, as well as encouraging each other to stay strong in the Lord (Ephesians 6:18). Prayer is as uncomplicated as talking to God together. Seeking time with a trusted brother or sister can move us from defeat to victory. Building the habit of worshiping and serving together is critical to becoming the people God desires for us to become. (Turning Point)
How do you express love, acceptance, grace, and encouragement with them? What elements of prayer and worship are regularly missing from your time with them? What other elements of time with God are you missing? Serving? Giving? Take time to reflect today.
"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord...(Joshua 24:15)" Check out this video on worshipping together during this season we are currently: Family Matters.
WORD
Psalm 92:1: It is good to praise the LORD and make music to your name, O Most High.
Psalm 100:2: Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.
Joshua 24:15: As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.
WORSHIP
May these worship songs bless you during your time of connection with God.
PRAYER
Dear Father, lead me into deeper communion and fellowship with You and with my community of faith. Begin with my own family to teach me to be bold to lead in worship and prayer, to bring the greatest glory to You, the only wise God, forever and ever.
SHARE
Our prayer for you in this season is to eagerly await what the Lord will do for us, in us and through us during these very special 30 days. Our heart is to spread the hope of Jesus to the world around us. Invite your family and friends to this daily devotional, save the image below, and share via social media!
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