My wife and I just returned from our first Life Group meeting this fall in Roscoe. The first thing our leader did was have people share something about themselves (work, family, history, etc). It was amazing to hear similar themes, common paths and pains as the stories unfolded. When the night came to a close with prayer, the people continued afterwards in conversations with those whose life situation paralleled their own.
In reflection over what transpired that evening, I realized again how important real Christian friendships are for spiritual growth. When we find out that we are not alone in this world and that our struggles are similar to others who attend the same church, there is a sense of hope that stirs within. Spiritual gifts are activated as we endeavor to love each other through the hardships of life. Paul said to the church at Rome,
"For I long to see you in order that I may impart some spiritual gift to you...that I may be encouraged together with you while among you, each of us by the other's faith, both yours and mine" (Rom. 1:11-12).
Paul longed for the spiritual encouragement he would give and receive by close interaction with other believers. Do you find that surprising for an apostle? Should we not long for the same thing? Spiritual growth is a community project (Eph. 4:16). How about joining a Life Group soon ?
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