Community

Community

God doesn’t intend for you to handle all the pain and stress in your life by yourself. We were wired for each other. We need each other.

Rick Warren

Your community includes the supportive people closest to you. Sometimes these individuals are those in your immediate and extended family. But I also want you to recognize the encouraging and helpful friends who surround you—your church family, neighbors, coworkers, and long-distance cheerleaders. I’ve placed these people in your life for interactive fellowship and support. When you try to carry your trials and anxiety all by yourself, you’re easily discouraged. Share your concerns and needs with those you trust and give them time to speak about their challenges too.

I designed people to need each other and to provide mutual support. You love your neighbor by carrying his or her emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual loads. Some of the burdens you’ll carry for one another are worry, anxiety, and sorrow. When you do that for others, your own burden won’t seem as heavy. As a community of people who care for one another, keep your focus on heaven—and that will make it much easier for you to endure trials.

Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.

Galatians 6:2, NIV