Building a Community Beyond Convenience

Was there a time when you didn’t feel like showing up to something, but you did anyway, and you were so glad that you did? Think about how beneficial it ended up being for you, or others there. It’s in those moments of inconvenience, the hard conversations, the sacrificial love, and the endurance in tough times, that true community is forged.

Romans 12:10 tells us how important it is to be devoted to and honor one another. In deep community, we do this even when it’s not easy or convenient.

Whether it’s attending prayer meetings, being part of a small group, or serving in different capacities, these things often require us to step out of our comfort zone and sacrifice our time in our busy lives. These are some of the good things we can cling to, knowing how essential they are for our growth and the depth of community.

When we meet, if on a Sunday or during the week, we are not simply filling time; we are engaging in the eternal work of God. We are shifting atmospheres, building each other up, and advancing the Kingdom of God. This is a big deal. Every gathering, every prayer meeting, every act of service is a part of something much larger than ourselves.

Community requires perseverance, but Galatians 6:9 reminds us of how valuable it is if we don’t give up doing these important things. There will be moments when it’s hard, when we feel like throwing in the towel, or when we want to retreat because it’s not convenient. But we are called to keep going, stick with each other through the challenges, endure, and keep loving. True community is built on persistence, not perfection.

Reflect:

• How can you take a step deeper into the church community this week, even if it feels inconvenient? Maybe it looks like joining a small group, a team, or a ministry.
• Does church community feel like something to persevere through right now? Create space for God to reveal the good things that come from this, in your life and in your community.