February 23
Together!
Make this your common practice: Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you can live together whole and healed.
James 5:16 (Message)
I have a problem and I think I am not alone. I am quiet to a fault. It's hard for me to open up. So when I read this scripture it’s like instant conviction. I have to say though, I have recognized my problem and I am starting to deal with it.
What I need is intimacy—a spiritual, emotional, mental intimacy with my brothers and sisters in Christ, and I have found this intimacy in one place—in small groups.
It is in the warm and caring environment of this smaller community where I feel safe and find myself willing to open up, to get transparent, and to be real. It’s here where we heal and find wholeness. It’s here where disciples are nurtured and matured. It worked for Jesus’ small group. It’s working in our group. Is it working in yours?
Lord, help us find godly intimacy with Your family. Help us to be encouraged and to encourage, to be helped and to help, to grow and to share in others’ growth. Help us together, O Lord, to glorify You. Amen