Why should we not be absent in our relationships (from our families, from our jobs, from the church, etc.)?

Genesis 2:18Then the Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone.”

God created us to be in relationships.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10Two 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.

2 Corinthians 7:6God, who encourages those who are discouraged, encouraged us by the arrival of Titus.

Our presence provides physical and emotional support to others. Two or more can form a team and accomplish much more together than separately. When someone needs a lift emotionally, an act of kindness from someone who cares—a smile, a kind word, a hug, a warm meal—can work wonders.

Genesis 45:15Then Joseph kissed each of his brothers and wept over them, and after that they began talking freely with him.

Job 42:11Then all his brothers, sisters, and former friends came and feasted with him in his home. And they consoled him and comforted him because of all the trials the Lord had brought against him.

Psalm 34:3Come, let us tell of the Lord’s greatness; let us exalt his name together.

Matthew 18:20“Where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.”

Acts 1:14They all met together and were constantly united in prayer.

Hebrews 10:25Let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another.

Our presence provides spiritual support to others. God’s people invite God’s presence when they meet together for worship, prayer, and to encourage each other.

Genesis 37:18-29When Joseph’s brothers saw him coming, they recognized him in the distance [and] made plans to kill him. . . . But when Reuben heard of their scheme, he came to Joseph’s rescue. . . . Reuben was secretly planning to rescue Joseph and return him to his father. . . . Some time later, Reuben returned to get Joseph out of the cistern. When he discovered that Joseph was missing, he tore his clothes in grief.

Matthew 25:10“While they were gone to buy oil, the bridegroom came. Then those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was locked.”

When we are absent, we miss crucial opportunities to help others. Much good can be done by just being there.

Hebrews 10:25Let 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.

Neglecting church may cause us to neglect God and his people.