Who’s walking beside you?

Standing in a small circle, we took turns introducing ourselves. We were strangers from different churches, different backgrounds, and different stages of life, brought together for one week to serve on a mission project.

We knew very little about one another. But we all had one thing in common: a love for Jesus and a willingness to serve wherever He led.

Six days later, that circle looked very different.

Hugs, laughter, and even a few tears were shed as we said our goodbyes. In just one week, strangers had become friends. We had prayed together, served together, encouraged one another, and watched God work in and through each of us.

It reminded me of something we often forget: we were created for relationships.

Relationships aren’t always easy. Some come naturally, others require patience and grace, and nearly all of them become messy from time to time. Yet God never intended for us to follow Him alone.

As believers, we’re part of something much bigger than ourselves. Our unity isn’t built on our personalities, preferences, or life experiences. It’s built on our shared faith in Christ.

When we walk together, encouragement and faith grow as we remind one another of God’s promises. Wisdom grows as we learn from one another’s experiences. Strength grows because we’re no longer carrying life’s burdens alone.

Paul understood the importance of this kind of community. He wrote that his desire was “that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding…” (Colossians 2:2).

This is a beautiful picture of the body of Christ. As we’re knit together in love, we encourage one another, grow in our understanding of God’s truth, and become stronger because we’re walking with Jesus and with one another.

God designed us to grow in relationship with Him and with His people. 

When we choose to live in biblical community, we discover that the relationships we invest in don’t just enrich our lives—they also deepen our faith.

Thoughts to Ponder:

• Who has God placed in your life to encourage and strengthen your faith?

• Who can you intentionally encourage, pray for, or reach out to this week?