Devotions From Pakistan, Number 7

How much effort do you place in making new friends?

To the early church, it was paramount in growing new believers into the faith.

Anne Cetus tells of a place that made a concerted effort to make a loving community.

In the southern Bahamas lies a small piece of land called Ragged Island.

In the nineteenth century, it had an active salt industry, but because of a decline in that industry, many people emigrated to nearby islands.

In 2016, when fewer than eighty people lived there, the island featured three religious denominations, yet the people all gathered together in one place for worship and fellowship each week.

With so few residents, a sense of community was especially vital for them.

The people of the early church felt a crucial need and desire for community as well. They were excited about their newfound faith that was made possible by Jesus’ death and resurrection.

But they also knew He was no longer physically with them, so they knew they needed each other.

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teachings, to fellowship, and to sharing Communion together (Acts 2:42). They gathered in homes for worship and meals and cared for others’ needs. 

The church is described in this way:

“All the believers were one in heart and mind” (4:32).

Filled with the Holy Spirit, they praised God continually and brought the church’s needs to Him in prayer.

Community is essential for our growth and support.

Don’t try to go it alone.

God will develop that sense of community as you share your struggles and joys with others and draw near to Him together.