Two is better than one...This past week I had the joy of spending time with my brother while we attempted to work on a project that will eventually benefit Scarlett Hope. It was one of those projects where you know it will be challenging but you quickly discover that what you thought would be difficult is even more complicated than you anticipated....you have moved from the kiddie pool to the high dive board at the Olympic sized pool.
When you are working long hours, hitting repeated issues due to customer service (or a lack thereof), and fighting against your inability or ignorance, there are some real discouraging and low moments.
While no "Walmart Words" were used, they were considered and tempting...
Amid a particularly frustrating moment in my heart, I was reminded of the great truths from Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 in which Solomon essentially says, "Don't go it alone".
My brother (both biologically and spiritually) was there to encourage me about what was true and support me in difficult moments. There was no sermon (though those are good and needed), no group or program (though those are helpful in the discipleship process), no music program (though truth in songs lifts our heart to the eternal plain)- just two goofy dudes attempting to use power tools.
It was an ordinary moment in the day but packed with spiritual tension and help.
While it was a long week, I was strengthened in my faith and grateful to watch the Bible come to life yet again.
What about you? Who has God put in your life so that you don't have to "go it alone"?
It is somewhat comical if it were not so discouraging to know that we often live surrounded by people but lonely and isolated (https://mcc.gse.harvard.edu/reports/loneliness-in-america).
Christian, no matter your personality spectrum, God has designed you (really every human being) to enjoy life, being helped by others.
If that is the case, what are some ways in which this happens, even if slowly and casually?
Keeping other Christians at arm's length- whether it is one of your pastors, a fellow church member in the body, or a friend in the family of God, maintaining superficiality robs both parties of the blessing and help God intends. Transparency is a jewel to be treasured, not radioactive material to be avoided.
Being MIA at your church- somewhat piggybacking off the previous thought, the more inconsistent your celebration with the assembly, the more prone you are to spiritual catastrophe. Let's pause to remember that Christians do not become disenfranchised or discontent overnight, it is a path paved with inconsistent assembly.
Being around in person but not in heart- building off both prior thoughts, you can be around at church, with other Christians, and even have Christians within your own home but being present does not mean you are presently participative. Ask yourself, when is the last time you would describe your outlook as Matthew 5:6 before coming to church, meeting with a friend, engaging around the dinner table, etc.?
More could be said but I want you to consider when the last time was that God used someone in your life to challenge, confront, encourage, comfort, or grow your faith? Conversely, when was the last time God used you to be such a person?
Sincerely,
Pastor Paul Norton