As
the body of Christ, we stick together, no matter where we live or how many
miles separate us. We can stay connected through social media, even though we
rarely see one another face-to-face.
In
nature, it is the animal that wanders from the safety of the herd that gets
attacked by a predator. Satan uses this same tactic on Believers. He finds us
wandering alone and pounces (1 Peter 5:8).
God
created Eve, because He saw that Adam suffered when he was alone. He also
created us as His Body, because there is safety, encouragement and blessings
when we dwell together in unity (Psalm 133:1).
Without
the Body of Christ we get lonely, roam from the straight and narrow path, and
make poor choices. Alone, we are vulnerable, but a three-fold chord cannot be
broken (Ecclesiastes 4:12). The Body loves us and helps to protect us.
When
we yoke with Jesus and other Believers, our load is lighter and we help each
other with our burden of guilt, trials and storms in life. Our perspective is
broadened by seeing things from another's point of view.
Even
Jesus chose 12 men to disciple and to keep Him company during His three years
of focused ministry on His way to the cross. Daily, they walked together, healed
the sick and reclaimed people from the devil's kingdom of darkness.
Prayer:
Father
God, help us to lay down our pride, to take the risks of being vulnerable which
are inherent in relationships, and to encourage one another. Remind us that a
best friend and prayer partner help us to diffuse our negative feelings and
experiences, because they give us someone with which to share our burdens.
Friendships
can be messy and cause problems in our life, but life is enhanced by
transparent relationships, regardless of the ups and downs they may create.
Thank You that You are our closest friend and that You always stick closer to
us than a brother (Proverbs 18:24).
Thought
for the Day:
Jesus
knew the value of walking together with other Saints, although many turned
against Him or deserted Him in the final hours of His life on this earth; He
chose to live vulnerably in front of both the multitudes and His disciples.
