Guest post by author Nancy Lewis-Shelton
“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.” Hebrews 10:23-25 NIV
Two of my Christian friends gave up church involvement following the pandemic. As far as I know, neither has returned. During the period of isolation, most of us received sermons on our television screens or the radio. However, as soon as I felt safe, I returned to my in-person community. To me, a church is more than a weekly sermon.
Friendship in Christ is a blessed gift. My church family offers encouragement to become more Christ-like by reminding me and others of who we are and who we can become. Of course, there can be judgments and challenges, but as we interact and pray, we mature in the ability to listen to other Christians’ points of view. Especially, when times are tough, I seek encouragement, and, at times, gentle admonishment. The Bible reminds me that God’s people need each of us, and we need them. My community family gives me strength, comfort, and guidance as does my pastor’s sermons. “Two are better than one…If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)
Most people have periods of struggles that are difficult to endure. My worst ones came after a twenty-three-year marriage when my husband asked for a divorce to marry his childhood sweetheart. At about the same time, my school superintendent moved me to a different position, which required coursework to obtain additional certification. In my first college class, we had several sessions where we shared our life experiences. Although some participants were kind and helpful, others had a “get over it” attitude as I struggled with unhappiness and feelings of self-worth.
Soon, I had to move from my long-time home. I chose a different town and joined a church that offered a singles class. My new friends focused on spiritual growth, often reminding me that they prayed for my recovery. Life improved as I participated in various activities at the church and volunteered in the children’s Sunday school. The tremendous support I received led me to establish a positive outlook, gave me a new purpose, and helped me find new life in God. I learned not to fear admonishment from anyone in my church community.
The Bible calls Christians to be part of the body of Christ by helping each other as well as strangers (Hebrews 10:24), by praying together, trusting God (Galatians 6:2), by providing and encouraging a safe environment of trust (Hebrews 3:13), and by enjoying each other’s company (1 Peter 4:9). God wants us to have accountability so we can live the best life possible and fulfill our identity as true disciples of Jesus.
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for the kindness and support that are the fruits of your church. When I meet another who is struggling, help me provide acceptance and encouragement, a listening ear, a helping hand, and honest truth. Amen
Nancy Lewis-Shelton retired from public education after years as a classroom teacher and school counselor. Published work includes devotionals and fiction/non-fiction short stories for adults and children. Recent publications include two fiction novellas about Cookie, a pet sitter. Volunteer activities include the church senior choir, elementary school Reading Buddy (Council of Churches), and a local oral storytelling group. When she’s not writing or volunteering, you might find her digging in the garden, playing bridge, reading, enjoying events with her daughter’s family, or participating in activities with her pet therapy dog, Robin.