This past weekend, Riverside hosted our annual women’s conference! To say it was beautiful and meaningful is a major understatement. God for sure was present and is at work in the hearts of those who attended! As I think about the day, one of the biggest takeaways for me is the reminder that, as believers, we are called to live in community with one another. We do not have to struggle in isolation by ourselves. Living a life alone with God does not mean that we live it apart from everyone else. The connection between godly men and women and those associated with them is continually revealed in the Bible.

1 Corinthians 12:25-27 says...“that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another. If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.

Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.” 

John 15:12-13 (ESV)

“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.”

We are called to love one another in the way that Christ loves us. Because of his love for us, he was willing to die for you and for me. I don’t know about you, but without a deep intimate relationship with my Heavenly Father, I can not love this way on my own. God will give us the ability to love others in this deep meaningful way. Apart from him, this is not possible. 

We are called to share each other’s burdens. Walk side by side with one another, love one another, encouraging each other with the truth of God’s Word.

Be encouraged today. Pray for our church family and those in your life who are struggling. Pray to God and ask him to give you the ability to love others the way He loves us-even when we don’t want to, don’t feel like it, or don’t receive the love in return. Love changes things and community with other believers is a huge piece of our personal walk with God! 

You do not have to struggle through life in isolation! You are loved and a son or daughter of the living God! Please reach out to one of the pastors at church or a fellow believer and allow them to minister to you as you share your burdens.