God Never Meant the Christian Life to be Lived on an Island

Ask the average individual, “What is your deepest misery?” Many would answer in one word - loneliness. On the human level, Christians have two words that answer the problem of loneliness - each other. Why do we need each other? One reason the Bible gives is so we can shoulder one another’s troubles and triumphs. After using the analogy of the human body and the phrase, “that the members should have the same care for one another,” Paul continues, “And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; and if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it.” Such companionship is so real that as you are going through trouble, you don’t feel like you are going through it alone. And when you are honored, you feel somebody else is excited with you. The burden seems half the weight and the triumph is twice as exciting.

Non-Christians are attracted to that kind of togetherness. They recognize it as something they have missed out on. Loneliness has permeated their lives and try as they do, nothing fills the gaps. It’s no wonder that the book of Acts records an incident of believers so caring for one another during times of persecution that they sold their possessions and distributed to those in need. The end result was they were “praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved” (Acts 2:47). The believers understood a basic truth. God never meant the Christian life to be lived on an island.

When it comes to the body of Christ, the thought ought never be, “I can handle it myself,” but instead, “We can handle it together.” Ask God to use your gifts and abilities to contribute to the growth and unity of a local body of believers. Ask Him to show you ways this week that you can contribute to that spirit of togetherness.

“And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually.” 1 Corinthians 12:26-27

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