More on Community

Day 19: How can I help cultivate today the characteristics of real community in my small group and church?

I can't really answer this question as I don't really belong to either. I can however discuss what I can do in general while working towards finding a small group or church. Day 19 discusses 5 characteristics we should have in relating to one another; honesty, humility, courtesy, confidentiality, and frequency. First be honest but gentle, don't criticize someone if you see they are going the wrong way but try to help them get back on track. The second characteristic is humility- we are all sinners, don't be ashamed to admit you're wrong or need help with your walk, do not place your self higher than anyone else or become any one's judge- its God's job not yours. Third, have patience and understanding even with the most difficult people as they are still part of God's family. Fourth is confidentiality, in a nutshell, don't be a gossip, its unChristianlike and will only lead to strife, bitterness and confusion- God is not the author of confusion!. Last is frequency, continue to go to church and small church groups, being in regular contact with people will help to build relationships.

All of the characteristics mentioned above are things that people should do in general and are sometimes difficult. For example, when you care about someone, you try to spare their feelings and let things slide because you don't want to offend them or have resent you. However a true friend doesn't cosign on nonsense. I'd rather have someone tell me I am going the wrong way (in a nice way of course) than let me fall down a ditch. This is especially crucial since that ditch is hell!

As I mentioned in previous blogs I am in the process of finding my church home and already have a few people I can fellowship with. I am hoping to use what I have learned in the last few chapters, especially this one, once that has been established. I am happy to say that it seems I getting close. I will continue to pray on it, and hope anyone who reads this will pray for me as well.