Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. Hebrews 10:24-25 NLT
The New Testament is a volume composed of four eyewitness accounts of the life and ministry of Jesus and the letters of the leaders of the early church to the rapidly growing communities. A simple read of these accounts and letters clearly illuminates the engagement of the people and the fact that being “known” was a central value of this movement. People are regularly mentioned by name and warm relationships are evident with plentiful directions for community.
Belonging to a place where one is known and valued is vital for spiritual and emotional health. So much in our culture, especially since the COVID pandemic, has encouraged or at least permitted us to live life solo or primarily in isolation. We can even get into the habit of church services online where we get information and inspiration, but no interaction with members of the family or getting to know anyone.
However, it remains true. We really do need to know and be known. There are at least four basic reasons why:
We all need support. John 16:33 records Jesus’ promise that we would have trials and troubles. You have already discovered that truth. You will suffer. You will experience loss and grief. There is no way in this broken world to get around it. But we are not meant to bear it alone. “Share one another’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2 NLT
We all need encouragement. To a person, we experience failure and discouragement. Of course we can pray, and that’s wonderful. But there is nothing quite like the help and encouragement we get from sharing our fails and flaws face to face with another understanding believer. We get encouraged in Jesus’ name (James 5:16).
We all need insight. Colossians 3:16 calls for believers to "teach and admonish one another in all wisdom." Ephesians 4:29 says to "build up others, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” We learn exponentially through the experiences and insights of others.
We all need accountability. Hebrews 10:24 instructs us to gather together to motivate one another toward love and good deeds. We need someone who knows us and loves us enough to tell it to us straight and help us stay on the path to life.
- We all need each other. We need to be known and loved in order to thrive. You need others and they need you.