Vibrant Community

A culture of support is incredibly important within our faith communities. God designed us with a need for community, and we are not meant to walk through life alone. We experience a sense of security and belonging when we know that we can depend on others for encouragement and help. We are meant to experience relationships that are life-giving, transformative, and encouraging.

A vibrant community is built by each person steadily playing their part and choosing to serve. It won’t happen by accident. Relationships require intentionality and sacrifice. They flourish when we engage with one another with compassion, thoughtfulness, and humility. Some of us might long for those types of relationships, but are actually unwilling to do the work. It’s important to remember that sacrificial love is the way of Christ.

If you long for those types of relationships, it’s going to take effort and intention. Consider how you can contribute to the community you are in. If you long to be encouraged, become an encourager. If you wish someone would build you up, take the time to build up the people around you. Kindness adds up and relationships are built over time. Your efforts will have an impact as you demonstrate God’s love to the people around you. Take the time to make other people feel noticed and valued.

Today, open your heart to receiving encouragement from others and choose to be generous with your own encouragement. Love and serve others without the expectation of getting something in return. Build someone up with earnest and heartfelt words. Pay attention to the gifts God has given them and call out the good things you see in their life. You can honor the Lord today by honoring the people around you.

Who can you encourage today?