Connection

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

Romans 12:10–12

Relationships are hard. While they can bring many joys, they can sometimes bring much pain. Sometimes when we’ve been deeply hurt, we might feel the solution is to separate ourselves from everyone. But isolation leaves us vulnerable, because a primary component of our emotional health is our connection with other people.

In a study conducted at University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, researchers found that people with low social connection have a greater propensity toward obesity and high blood pressure than those with strong social connections. Conversely, the study showed that people with strong social connections have lower levels of depression and anxiety. They also have higher levels of self-esteem and empathy.4

So how do we tap into this benefit when we are depleted by depression or hurt?

First, we must find the people we can go deep with. We know Jesus had three to six close people in his life: Peter, James, John, Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. Jesus never pretended; he shared his deepest struggle with those close to him. He sought people he knew would try to support him during his darkest hour. Jesus took the risk to open himself to others, knowing he might be rejected. We can follow this example.

Being physically, mentally, and spiritually healthy is tied to connection with others. To find our tribe takes boldness and risk; however, the rewards last a lifetime.

A Christian fellowship lives and exists by the intercession of its members for one another, or it collapses.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer

They reminded me that Christianity isn’t meant to simply be believed; it’s meant to be lived, shared, eaten, spoken, and enacted in the presence of other people. They reminded me that, try as I may, I can’t be a Christian on my own. I need a community. I need the church.

Rachel Held Evans

For Further Reflection

Hebrews 13:16; 1 Thessalonians 5:11; Matthew 7:12

Today’s Prayer

Father, in my darkest hours, please give me the strength to reach out to others. Help me to be authentic and true about what is occurring in my life. And as others become available to me, help me to be available for them. Amen.