Community of Perseverance
OPENING PRAYER:
Holy Spirit, unite us as a community of believers who support and encourage one another. May we find strength in our shared journey and joy in our collective perseverance.
"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up."
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NIV)
REFLECT:
Pastor Todd Carter's marathon story underscored the importance of community in our spiritual journey. Running alongside another person provided the encouragement and motivation needed to persevere. Similarly, our faith journey is not meant to be a solo endeavor. We are called to lean into the community of believers, supporting and uplifting one another.
The church in Philippi exemplified this unity. Despite facing persecution and internal challenges, they stood firm together, advancing the gospel as a united body. Todd emphasized that our perseverance is strengthened when we strive together, sharing our burdens and celebrating our victories.
Reflect on your own community. How have you experienced the support of fellow believers? Todd's message encourages us to actively engage with our spiritual family, offering and receiving encouragement. In doing so, we create a culture of perseverance that empowers us to face life's challenges with hope and resilience.
As you consider your role in the community, remember that your presence and participation matter. Together, we can achieve more than we ever could alone, advancing God's kingdom and experiencing the joy of shared faith.
I WILL STATEMENT:
I will persevere in my generosity, trusting God can make all things possible.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Lord, thank You for the gift of community. Help us to support one another in love and to persevere together in our journey of faith. Amen.