Walls Fall Down: God’s Unusual Plan for VictorySample

A CULTURE OF LIKE-MINDED PEOPLE

Have you ever witnessed a person on a team who complained constantly, tore others down, or didn’t contribute? If so, you know how damaging one contrary person can be to the overall goals and mission of the team. This kind of negativity spreads quickly, and it doesn’t take long for the entire team to fall apart. On the flip side, when everyone on the team is likeminded, possessing the same kind of spirit, nothing will be impossible for that team! The same is true for you in your current battle. If you surround yourself with likeminded individuals who can encourage and strengthen you, it will make all the difference in the world.

At the battle of Jericho, God selected men who were united in mindset and mission to march around the walls of the city. Besides a few priests, the men who walked around the fortified city were soldiers—they were mighty men who were prepared to fight shoulder-to-shoulder and sword-to-sword. Forty years of discipline in the wilderness had weeded out all the defectors, complainers, and troublemakers. Only the faithful were left.

We were created for community—to be surrounded by other kindred spirits in the faith. Our Lord Jesus Christ began his ministry by forming a community of followers called “The Twelve Disciples.” He spent the next three years teaching them to love and care for one another. Jesus said in John 13:34-35, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

This scripture, along with many others throughout the Bible, teaches us that we need our brothers and sisters in Christ. This is true especially in troubled times. We need other Christians to pray, encourage, and walk alongside us when we are facing obstacles. It is then we realize we are not alone. We have a God who is with us always, and we have a Church family that cares for us.

Whatever you are struggling with today, find a support group of Christian believers who will listen, pray for you, help you, mentor you, and hold you accountable. Immerse yourself in a culture of like-minded people.