Friday Fight 205: Community Soil vs. Community Foil

Every Friday, when I wake and pray, God places something on my heart to help fight darkness beginning in our minds. Today is FF205.

How many of us have reflected on last week's discussion about community soil? God created us to belong to a community that strives to embody the teachings of Christ while challenging, enriching, and holding one another accountable. How many of us thought about our tribe and times we have spoken or received correction or encouragement, were they both done in love? We were encouraged to assess and appreciate those around us and consider expanding our tribe. However, how do we build our communities when past hurts from previous tribes resurface, leaving us feeling guarded?

Community Soil vs. Community Foil:

In last week's discussion, we explored the blessings of being surrounded by those God has placed in our lives—our community, people, and tribe—all walking a similar spiritual path. Maintaining cohesion within this community can be challenging. How can we foster a healthy, expanding community? One vital part of a thriving community being centered around Christ's love and embracing His community language. This 'lingo' develops when we actively listen and engage with those around us. Community involvement requires ongoing efforts, much like any meaningful relationship. Identifying as Christians does not exempt us from causing harm, disappointment, or feelings of rejection among those close to us. These situations are inevitable, but by embracing the community's climate and language, we learn the importance of forgiveness and approaching others with love and humility.

This perspective brings to mind one of my driving verses, 1 Peter 4:8: "Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins." All communities begin with an invitation, and recognizing the diversity each person brings is inherently welcoming.

So, how do we persevere when, at times, isolation or separation seems more appealing? Relationships are intricate and require effort from all involved, but they are always meaningful and worthwhile when Christ is at the center. We must move beyond our past negative experiences to remain unified and resist the urge to isolate ourselves. Open wounds and scars from exclusion, judgment, and misunderstandings due to insufficient communication can lead to apprehension and seclusion. We must stop accepting rejection as the norm, as it will only serve to divide us through the work of darkness. Although the world promotes virtual communities that may seem less vulnerable to wounded souls, these will never reach the spiritual depths of healing, faith, and connection that genuine community fosters through regular fellowship and healthy communication.

This week, let us commit to nurturing our communities and embracing love, forgiveness, and understanding as we walk together in faith. Our communities start with us.

Pastor Shannon

River Church