“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” +2 Cor. 1:3-4
A Letter To My Suffering Friend-Part 3
This is my third letter to my suffering friends enduring various hardships. As I was reflecting on all the recent trials I’ve heard of and have seen on FB-including intense depression, eating disorders, miscarriages, sudden losses of loved ones and other pains-I was reminded of a precious truth. We, as people, need each other. For Christians in particular, we have a means of grace in the church. The church is the body of Christ, the worldwide group of Christ-centered, Holy Spirit filled, Bible-believing children of God saved by Jesus’ grace. God has designed us to rely on one another. As the famous motto goes, “There are no lone ranger Christians!” There is no such thing in the Scriptures and in God’s kingdom, only a co-dependent family which share a common purpose and pursuit of God. Jesus promised us not an easy life, but rather a pain-filled life lined with a glorious hope. Part of God’s plan of hope for us is the church. By worshiping and living life together we can traverse the muck and mire of despair. We were never meant to walk this journey alone. The church is a divine community which supports itself in Christ-like love and selfless giving. When we operate as God intends, we link arms with one another and unite our hearts and hands in mutual faith and compassion.
We Need the Church
Don’t neglect this means of grace. I can’t remember the last time I missed a worship service. Although I serve as a pastor, I realize that God has designed me for community. I need the church. The church needs me. We need each other. When we walk through the dark valleys and swim through the murky waters, our Savior walks with us. He holds and molds us during these moments and uses the church to strengthen us. Here is my plea to you: Don’t run away from God in your pain. Turn around and run towards Him. He will welcome you as you lean on Christ. And lean on the church. As brothers and sisters in Christ, we can relate to each other’s pains and serve one another in love. We can share the comfort God has given us with others in great pain. Now let’s reach out and lend a helping hand. Your friend in Christ,
Steve
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