A number of years ago I was reading through Shane's book, "The Irresistible Revolution." I was deeply impacted by his passion for following God as related through his stories and bold telling of lessons learned through life experiences. He speaks of sacrifices worth making; of community worth building; of faith worth pursuing.
I am thankful for people that God puts in our lives to push us, to make us think carefully about how we live our lives and make our decisions, how we spend our money, how we grow our children and care for those around us. Most importantly, people like Shane show us through example what authentic Christian living looks like. These inspiring people met in books, studies or other forms of media can act as exemplary "visitors" who help to regain our focus as a community; to breathe new life and motivate us to stay or get back on track.
The Bible speaks about the importance of living and growing with other people in faith community. It wasn't easy to be selfless in Bible times and isn't easy to do now either in a society that is praised for individualism and self achievement. It isn't easy to be in the midst of disagreements and sickness and loss. Yet the upside down nature of the kingdom of God is that in sharing these very things that upset us or in giving up their importance in our lives to help others, we find fulfillment - we find encouragement in the working out and sharing of God's love. (See Phil 4:10 - 19.)
I have been deeply moved while reading of Paul's fondness for the Philippians. He starts the letter by saying:
Every time you cross my mind, I break out in exclamations of thanks to God. Each exclamation is a trigger to prayer. I find myself praying for you with a glad heart. I am so pleased that you have continued on in this with us, believing and proclaiming God's Message, from the day you heard it right up to the present. There has never been the slightest doubt in my mind that the God who started this great work in you would keep at it and bring it to a flourishing finish on the very day Christ Jesus appears. Phil 1:3-6 MSG
Throughout the letter we find Paul saying things with urgency and with repetition to make a point. The point being, don't give up what you already know and have attained in your faith. Help each other out. These words convict and challenge and comfort.
Just like a running partner can get us out the door for a run in the morning or a friend walking alongside while in a weight loss program can keep you from grabbing food when you know you shouldn't, so to a good friend or group of friends can help grow spiritual disciplines that will keep you growing in matters of self control, fear or other selfish tendencies we want to be freed from.
Stick with me, friends. Keep track of those you see running this same course, headed for this same goal.
My dear, dear friends! I love you so much. I do want the very best for you. You make me feel such joy, fill me with such pride. Don't waver. Stay on track, steady in God.
Philippians 3:17, 4:1 MSG
Thanks for sharing this Nicole.
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